Lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

An exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior mirror assembly having a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is configured to mount to a side of the vehicle. The movable portion includes a reflective element and is movable about the fixed portion between a normal viewing position where the movable portion is extended outwardly from the vehicle and a folded position where the movable portion is folded toward the side of the vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes at least one light assembly projecting a light pattern from the exterior mirror assembly. A proximity detector is preferably provided that actuates a powerfold mechanism when the proximity detector detects an object so as to move the movable portion from the normal viewing position to the folded position.

[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.10/190,840, filed Jul. 8, 2002, by Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van deVen, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, and Dr. Niall R. Lynam, which isnow U.S. Pat. No. 6,685,348, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No.6,416,208, which is a continuation application of U.S. Pat. No.6,276,821, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,602,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 5,863,116, which is acontinuation of U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,705, which is a continuation of U.S.Pat. No. 5,497,305, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 5,371,659,all of which are incorporated in their entireties by reference herein.The great-great-grandparent application, U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,602, isadditionally a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,654, which isa continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,704, which is acontinuation of U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,306, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,305, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No.5,371,659, all of which are incorporated by reference herein in theirentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to security systems for vehiclesand, more particularly, to remotely actuated, personal safety lightingsystems. The invention is particularly adapted to incorporation in theexterior mirrors of a vehicle.

[0003] Personal security in and around vehicles has become an importantconcern. In particular, an increasing number of assaults and robberiesare committed in parking lots while occupants are entering and exitingvehicles. While remote-operated, keyless entry systems have beenincorporated in vehicles in order to unlock the vehicle and illuminateinterior lights, such systems merely expedite entry to the vehicle anddo not, per se, enhance security around the vehicle. Accordingly, a needexists for a vehicle security system to increase the security forvehicle occupants while entering and exiting the vehicle. Any suchsystem would need to be aesthetically pleasing and not burdensome inuse.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention is intended to provide a personal safetyfeature for a vehicle in the form of a floodlight adapted to projectinglight generally downwardly on an area adjacent a portion of the vehiclein order to create a lighted security zone in the area. Advantageously,the floodlight is preferably positioned in the housing of an exteriormirror having a reflective element also positioned in the housing.According to an aspect of the invention, an actuator is provided for thefloodlight including a base unit in the vehicle and a remotetransmitter. The base unit is responsive to a signal from the remotetransmitter in order to actuate the floodlight. This allows the vehicleoperator to actuate the floodlight from a distance in order to establishthe security zone prior to approaching the vehicle.

[0005] According to another aspect of the invention, an actuator for thefloodlight includes a lockout device in order to prevent actuation ofthe floodlight during operation of the vehicle. According to yet afurther aspect of the invention, a signal light that is adapted toprojecting light generally rearwardly of the vehicle is included in theexterior mirror housing. An actuator for the warning light is connectedwith the stoplight circuit, turn signal circuit, or both the stoplightand turn signal circuit, of the vehicle in order to actuate the warninglight when either the stoplight or turn signal is being actuated.

[0006] According to yet another aspect of the invention, the floodlightis adapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing on an areaadjacent a portion of the vehicle that extends laterally onto thevehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle. In this manner, asecurity zone is established from the vehicle door to the rear of thevehicle. The signal light is adapted to projecting a pattern of lightextending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.In this manner, the pattern generated by the signal light cannot besubstantially observed by a driver of the vehicle. However, the patterngenerated by the signal light may be observed by a driver of anothervehicle passing the vehicle equipped according to the invention.

[0007] The floodlight and signal lights may be generated by a lightemitting diode positioned in the housing, a vacuum fluorescent lamppositioned in the housing, an incandescent lamp positioned in thehousing or a light source in the vehicle and a light pipe between thelight source and the mirror housing.

[0008] By providing a lighted security zone adjacent the vehicle, userscan observe suspicious activity around the vehicle. The pattern of lightgenerated by a security light according to the invention establishes asecurity zone around, and even under, the vehicle in the important areawhere the users enter and exit the vehicle. The provision for remoteactuation of the security light provides a deterrent to ward off personslurking around the protected vehicle while the users are still at a safedistance from the vehicle. The provision for a lockout circuit ensuresthat the security light will not inadvertently be actuated while thevehicle is in motion. The invention, further, conveniently combines asignal light that acts in unison with the vehicle's turn signal, brakelight, or both, with the security light in an exterior mirror assembly.The signal light may be designed to be observed by other vehiclespassing the equipped vehicle but not directly by the driver of theequipped vehicle.

[0009] The present invention further provides an exterior mirror systemfor a vehicle, which incorporates a signal light into the exteriorrearview mirror assembly. The signal light provides a light patternwhich preferably extends forwardly, rearwardly, and to the side of thevehicle in order to provide advance warning to approaching vehicles, orto a vehicle that is in the vehicle's blind spot, that the driver of thevehicle intends to make a turn or lane change, with the light patternpreferably restricted from direct observation by a driver of thevehicle. Additionally, the present invention provides a “powerfold”exterior mirror system which includes a security light that projects apattern of light adjacent side of the vehicle and fans the lightoutwardly from the vehicle to provide a security zone, which isoptionally adapted to maintain the position of the pattern of light evenwhen the exterior rearview mirror assembly is moved between its normalextended operating position to a folded position. It is quite common invehicles in many European countries to have electrically retractable or“powerfold” mirrors.

[0010] According to one form of the invention, an exterior mirror systemfor a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly, which includes areflective element, a housing for the reflective element, and apositioning device for adjusting the position of the reflective elementin the housing. The mirror assembly is adapted to mount to the vehicleand includes at least one signal light. The signal light includes alight source and a light conduiting member. The light conduiting memberis oriented for facing at least rearward of the vehicle and is adaptedto project a pattern of light from the housing which extends at leastrearwardly of and laterally from the vehicle and to restrict the lightfrom extending into the vehicles so that a driver seated in the vehicledoes not directly observe the pattern of light. Preferably, the patternof light comprises an amber colored light to provide a signal.

[0011] In one aspect, the light conduiting member includes a light inputsurface and a light emitting surface. In one form, at least a portion ofthe light emitting surface is generally orthogonal to the light inputsurface. In further aspects, the light conduiting member includes aplurality of light conduiting portions with each including a light inputsurface and a light emitting surface and first and second side walls.The side walls provide internal light reflecting surfaces and directlight from the light source through the light conduiting portions andthrough said light emitting surfaces. In preferred form, the signallight includes a plurality of light sources, with each being associatedwith the light conduiting portions.

[0012] In other aspects, the light conduiting member includes a firstside, a first end, and a second side. The first side defines the lightemitting surface and is positioned for facing outward from the housing.The first end defines the light input surface. The second side defines aplurality of internal reflecting surfaces which are arranged to reflectthe light from the light source through the first side of the lightreflecting member and in the light pattern.

[0013] In further aspects, the light pattern includes a plurality oflight regions, with each of the light regions having a first leadingedge generally parallel with the vehicle and a second leading edgegenerally angled away from the vehicle. For example, the internalreflecting surfaces may comprise generally angled planar surfacesprovided on the second side of the light conduiting member.

[0014] In another aspect, the exterior mirror system includes a secondlight conduiting member which is positioned in a front facing portion ofthe housing wall of the exterior mirror assembly and directs light atleast forwardly of the vehicle. Preferably, the second light reflectingmember wraps around an outer portion of the housing wall for directinglight laterally with respect to the vehicle.

[0015] According to yet another form of the invention, an exteriormirror assembly for vehicle includes a mirror housing having areflective element and a positioning device for adjusting the positionof the reflective element, and a signal light mounted to a portion ofthe assembly. The signal light includes a light source and a reflector,which includes a plurality of faceted light reflecting surfaces fordirecting light from the light source forwardly, rearwardly, andlaterally of the vehicle. The faceted reflecting surfaces are adapted torestrict light from extending into the vehicle so that a driver seatedin the vehicle does not directly observe the pattern of light.

[0016] In one aspect, the faceted reflector surfaces may comprise eitherplanar reflective surfaces, concave reflective surfaces, or convexreflective surface. Preferably, at least one of the faceted reflectivesurfaces comprises a concave reflective surface.

[0017] In other aspects, the signal light includes a housing, whichincludes a recessed portion defining a curvilinear wall. The lightsource is positioned in the recessed portion, and the reflector ispositioned along the curvilinear wall. Light emitted from the lightsource is directed outwardly from the light module and forwardly,rearwardly, and laterally of the vehicle and is restricted fromextending into the vehicle so that the driver seated in the vehicle doesnot directly observe the light pattern.

[0018] According to another form of the invention, the exterior mirrorassembly for vehicle includes a powerfold exterior mirror system. Thepowerfold exterior mirror system includes a folding portion and anon-folding portion, with the non-folding portion being adapted to mountto the vehicle, and the folding portion including a reflective elementand being adapted to move between a normal viewing position and a foldedposition. At least one security light is substantially positioned ineither the folding portion or the non-folding portion, which is adaptedto project a pattern of light from the exterior mirror assembly tocreate a lighted security zone in an area adjacent the vehicle.

[0019] In one aspect, the security light is positioned in the foldingportion of the exterior mirror assembly. In further aspects, theexterior mirror assembly further includes an actuator, which adjusts theposition of the security light in the folding portion when the foldingportion moves to its folded position whereby the orientation of thelighted security zone remains substantially unaffected by the movementof the folding portion.

[0020] In another aspect, the security light is mounted to thenon-folding portion of the exterior mirror assembly. In further aspects,the security light includes a housing, a light source positioned to thehousing, a light reflecting member supported in the housing, and acover. The light reflecting member directs light from the light sourcethrough the cover. Preferably, the housing is substantially positionedin the non-folding portion of the exterior mirror assembly. Furthermore,the cover is preferably substantially flush with an outer surface of thenon-folding portion to reduce the aerodynamic drag of the securitylight.

[0021] It can be appreciated from the foregoing that the exterior mirrorsystem of the present invention permits an approaching vehicle toobserve an actuated signal light without the interference fromheadlights or brake lights. The exterior mirror system may include aunitary module, which is easily installed or removed for repair, or asignal light assembly which is incorporated into the housing of themirror assembly.

[0022] These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features in theinvention, will become more apparent from the study of the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023]FIG. 1 is a perspective view taken from the front of a mirrorassembly (rear of the vehicle) incorporating the invention;

[0024]FIG. 2 is a rear view of the mirror assembly in FIG. 1;

[0025]FIG. 3 is a top view of the mirror assembly in FIG. 1;

[0026]FIG. 4 is the same view of FIG. 1 of an alternative embodiment ofthe invention;

[0027]FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a control system according to theinvention;

[0028]FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of acontrol system according to the invention;

[0029]FIG. 7 is a breakaway perspective view of the system in FIG. 1revealing internal components thereof;

[0030]FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the lines VIII-VIII in FIG.7;

[0031]FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along the lines IX-IX in FIG. 7;

[0032]FIG. 10 is a side elevation of a vehicle illustrating the securityzone light pattern generated by a security light according to theinvention;

[0033]FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the vehicle and light pattern inFIG. 10;

[0034]FIG. 12 is a rear elevation of the vehicle and light pattern inFIG. 10;

[0035]FIG. 13 is a side elevation of a vehicle illustrating the lightpattern generated by a signal light useful with the invention;

[0036]FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the vehicle and light pattern inFIG. 13;

[0037]FIG. 15 is a rear elevation of the vehicle and light pattern inFIG. 13;

[0038]FIG. 16 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a first alternative lightsource according to the invention;

[0039]FIG. 17 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a second alternative lightsource;

[0040]FIG. 18 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a third alternative lightsource;

[0041]FIG. 19 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a fourth alternative lightsource; and

[0042]FIG. 20 is the same view as FIG. 7 of the invention embodied in analternative mirror structure.

[0043]FIG. 21 is a plan view of a vehicle with an exterior rearviewmirror assembly of the present invention mounted to the vehicleillustrating the light pattern from a signal light mounted in theexterior rearview mirror assembly;

[0044]FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the driver's side exteriorrearview mirror assembly of FIG. 21;

[0045]FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 22;

[0046]FIG. 24 is a cross-section view taken along line XXIV-XXIV of FIG.23;

[0047]FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a light reflecting member of theexterior rearview mirror assembly of FIGS. 22 and 23;

[0048]FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the light reflecting member of FIG.25;

[0049]FIG. 27 is an elevation view of a second embodiment of theexterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

[0050]FIG. 28 is a bottom plan view of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 27;

[0051]FIG. 29 is a plan view of a light module of the exterior rearviewmirror assembly of FIG. 28;

[0052]FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of theexterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

[0053]FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of a signal light of FIG.30;

[0054]FIG. 31A is a front elevation of a light source of the signallight of FIG. 31;

[0055]FIG. 31B is a side view of the light source of FIG. 31A;

[0056]FIG. 32A is a plan view of a second embodiment of the signal lightof FIG. 31;

[0057]FIG. 32B is a plan view of a third embodiment of the signal lightof FIG. 31;

[0058]FIG. 33 is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention shown mounted to avehicle;

[0059]FIG. 34 is an enlarged plan view of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 33 illustrated in a normal extended position;

[0060]FIG. 35 is an enlarged plan view of the exterior mirror assemblyof FIG. 33 in a folded position;

[0061]FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXXVI-XXXVI ofFIG. 34 illustrating a light module of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 33 and a positioning mechanism for the light module;

[0062]FIG. 37 is an elevation view of one the exterior rearview mirrorassemblies of FIG. 33;

[0063]FIG. 38 is an elevation view of a fifth embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

[0064]FIG. 39 is a plan view of a vehicle with foldable driver andpassenger side rearview mirror assemblies incorporating anotherembodiment of a ground illuminating light of the present inventionillustrating a light pattern on the ground when the mirror assembliesare in their normal use position;

[0065]FIG. 40 is a plan view of the vehicle of FIG. 39 illustrating asecond light pattern when the exterior mirror assemblies are in foldedpositions;

[0066]FIG. 41A is a perspective view of the exterior mirror assembly ofFIG. 39;

[0067]FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the exterior mirror assembly ofFIG. 40 in the folded position;

[0068]FIG. 42A is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of foldableexterior mirror assembly similar to FIG. 41A incorporating a groundilluminating or security light;

[0069]FIG. 42B is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of afoldable exterior rearview mirror assembly incorporating a groundilluminating light;

[0070]FIG. 42C is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of anexterior rearview mirror assembly;

[0071]FIG. 42D is a plan view of a vehicle with foldable driver andpassenger side rearview mirror assemblies incorporating the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of FIG. 42C;

[0072]FIG. 43 is an elevation view of a tenth embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

[0073]FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXXXIV-XXXXIVof FIG. 43;

[0074]FIG. 45 is an elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of theexterior rearview mirror of the present invention;

[0075]FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXXXVI-XXXXVIof FIG. 45; and

[0076]FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a signal light moduleincorporating a security light.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Referring now specifically to the drawings, and the illustrativeembodiments depicted therein, a vehicle personal security lightingsystem 25 includes an exterior mirror assembly 26 having a conventionalreflectance element 28, a security light 30, preferably white, or clear,and a signal light 32, preferably red, incorporated in a housing, orcasing, 34. Casing 34 is connected by a neck 36 to a stationary panel orsail 38 adapted for incorporation with the forward portion of thevehicle side window assembly, and which mounts mirror assembly 26 to thedoor of a vehicle 40 (see FIG. 10). Reflectance element 28 may be any ofseveral reflectors, such as glass coated on its first or second surfacewith a suitable reflective layer or layers, such as those disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,179,471, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein, or an electro-optic cell including a liquidcrystal, electrochromic, or electrochemichromic fluid, gel orsolid-state compound for varying the reflectivity of the mirror inresponse to electrical voltage applied there across as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,151,824, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein.

[0078] With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, as is conventional, reflectanceelement 28 is mounted to a bracket 43 by an actuator 42. Casing 34 ismounted to bracket 43. Actuator 42 provides remote positioning ofreflectance element 28 on two orthogonal axes. Such actuators are wellknown in the art and may include a jackscrew-type actuator 42 such asModel No. H16-49-8001 (right-hand mirror) and Model No. H16-49-8051(left-hand mirror) by Matsuyama of Kawagoe City, Japan, as illustratedin FIG. 7, or a planetary-gear actuator 42′ such as Model No. 540 (U.S.Pat. No. 4,281,899) sold by Industrie Koot BV (IKU) of Montfoort,Netherlands, as illustrated in FIG. 20. As is also conventional, theentire casing 34 including actuator 42, 42′ is mounted via bracket 43for breakaway motion with respect to stationary panel 38 by a breakawayjoint assembly 44. Breakaway joint assembly 44 (FIG. 9) includes astationary member 46 attached to vehicle 40, a pivoting member 48 towhich bracket 43 and casing 34 are attached, and a wire-way 50 throughwhich a wire cable 52 passes. Wire cable 52 includes individual wires tosupply control signals to actuator 42, 42′, as well as signals tocontrol the level of reflectivity, if reflective element 28 is of thevariable reflectivity type noted above, such as an electrochromicmirror. Power may also be supplied through cable 52 for a heater (notshown) as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,151,824 in order to evaporate iceand dew from reflective element 28.

[0079] With reference to FIG. 5, actuator 42, 42′ receives a first setof reversible voltage signals from a switch 54, in order tobidirectionally pivot in one axis, and a second set of reversiblesignals from a switch 56, in order to bidirectionally pivot in theopposite axis, as is conventional. Switches 54 and 56 are actuated by acommon actuator (not shown) that is linked so that only one of theswitches 54 and 56 may be actuated at a time. In this manner, actuator42, 42′ may utilize one common conductor for both switches 54, 56.

[0080] Each of the security light 30 and signal light 32 includes alight source 60 and reflector 62 behind a lens 64 (FIG. 8). Light source60, reflector 62 and lens 64 are designed for security light 30 toproject a pattern 66 of light, such as white light, through a clear,non-filtering lens, in order to establish a security zone around thevehicle (FIGS. 10-12). Pattern 66 extends rearward from mirror assembly26. Vertically, pattern 66 contacts the ground at 68 in the vicinity ofentry and exit by the vehicle occupants (FIGS. 10 and 12). Laterally,pattern 66 fans out into contact with the side 70 a, 70 b of thevehicle. This contact washes the sides of the vehicle to reflect thelight in order to further illuminate the area in order to establish thesecurity lighting zone (FIGS. 11 and 12). In a preferred embodiment,pattern 66 extends rearwardly from mirror assembly 26 without projectingany portion of the pattern forwardly of the mirror assembly.

[0081] Signal light 32 generates a light pattern 72, which is directedgenerally horizontally rearwardly of vehicle 40 (FIGS. 13-15). Pattern72 is laterally directed substantially away from side 70 a, 70 b ofvehicle 40 so that the driver of vehicle 40 does not directly interceptpattern 72, although a minor intensity (such as 10%) of the pattern isintercepted by the driver in order to provide awareness of the actuatingof the signal light. Pattern 72 fans laterally away from side 70 a, 70 bto an extent that is parallel the face of reflectance element 28, whichis substantially perpendicular to side 70 a, 70 b (FIG. 14). Thus, thedriver of another vehicle (not shown) passing vehicle 40 on the left orright side of vehicle 40 will intercept pattern 72 while the vehicle isbehind and beside vehicle 40. Although, in an illustrated embodiment,lens 64 of signal light 32 is substantially planar, lens 64 of signallight 32 could be made to wrap around the outward side of casing 34 inorder to function as a side marker for the vehicle as is required insome European countries.

[0082] Vehicle mirror assembly security system 25 is actuated by acontrol system 74 (FIG. 5). Control system 74 includes means foractuating security light 30 including a remote transmitting device 76and a stationary receiving device 78. Transmitting device 76 may beremotely carried by the vehicle operator and includes switches 80 and 81in order to actuate the transmitting circuitry to transmit a signal formantenna 82, which is received by antenna 84 of receiving device 78.Receiving device 78 is mounted in the vehicle, such as in the vehicletrunk compartment, and includes an output 86 in order to operate remotedoor lock circuit 88, as is conventional. Output 86 is, additionally,provided as an input 90 of a lockout circuit 92, whose output 94 issupplied to security lamp 30. Input 90 may additionally be actuated by atimeout circuit 96, which is conventionally supplied in a vehicle inorder to dim the interior lights, following a slight delay, after theoccurrence of an event, such as the opening and closing of the doors ofthe vehicle. Signal light 32 is actuated on line 98 from either a turnindicator circuit 100 or a stop lamp indicator circuit 102, both ofwhich are conventionally supplied with vehicle 40.

[0083] In operation, when the operator actuates switch 80 oftransmitting device 76, receiving device 78 produces a signal on output86 in order to cause remote door lock circuit 88 to unlock the doors.Alternatively, actuation of switch 81 on remote transmitting device 76causes receiving device 78 to produce a signal on output 86 to causeremote door lock circuit 88 to lock the vehicle doors. The signal onoutput 86 actuates security lamp 30 provided that lockout circuit 92does not inhibit the signal. Lockout circuit 92 responds to operation ofthe vehicle in order to avoid actuation of security lamp 30 when thevehicle is in motion. Such lockout circuits are conventional and may beresponsive to placing of the vehicle transmission in gear of sensing ofthe speed of the vehicle, or the like. Security lamp 30 is alsoactuated, in response to interior lighting device timeout circuit 96,whenever the interior lights of the vehicle are being actuated bytimeout circuit 96, provided that lookout circuit 92 does not inhibitthe signal from security lamp 30. This is provided in order to allowsecurity lamp 30 to be actuated in response to the entry to, or exitfrom, vehicle 40 without the operator utilizing transmitting device 76to lock or unlock the doors. Signal lamp 32 is actuated in response toturn indicator circuit 100 whenever the operator moves the indicatorstick in the direction of that particular signal lamp 32. Signal lamp 32may additionally be actuated from stop lamp circuit 102 in response tothe driver actuating the vehicle's brakes.

[0084] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5, lens 64 of signallamp 32 is adapted to filter the light provided from lamp 32 so as to bered and is provided for vehicles 40 in which the stop lamps and rearturn indicator lamps are, likewise, red. Because signal lamp 32 shinesred, pattern 72 is restricted from extending forward of the vehicle.This is in order to comply with regulations prohibiting red lights fromcausing confusion with emergency vehicles by shining forward of thevehicle.

[0085] For vehicles having red stoplights and amber turn indicators inthe rear, a vehicle mirror security assembly 25′ includes an exteriormirror assembly 26′ and a control system 74′ (FIGS. 4 and 6). Exteriormirror assembly 26′ includes a security light 30′, preferably white orclear, and a pair of signal lights 32 a′ and 32 b′. Signal light 32 a′is amber and is actuated directly from turn indicator circuit 100′. Thisamber color can be provided either by an amber light bulb or source, ora filtering lens providing an amber color. Signal light 32 b′ is red andis actuated directly from stop lamp circuit 102′. Each of the lightpatterns generated by signal lights 32 a′ and 32 b′ substantiallycorrespond with light pattern 72. The light pattern generated bysecurity light 30′ is substantially equivalent to pattern 66. With theexception that turn signal indicator circuit 100′ actuates signal light32 a′ and stop lamp circuit 102′ actuates signal light 32 b′, controlsystem 74′ operates substantially identically with control circuit 74.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, light source 60, for both securitylight 30 and signal light 32, may be supplied as a conventionalincandescent or halogen lamp 60 a (FIG. 7). Alternatively, aconventional incandescent fuse lamp 60 b may be used (FIG. 16).Alternatively, a vacuum fluorescent lamp 60 c, which is available invarious colors, may be used (FIG. 17). Alternatively, a light emittingdiode 60 d may be used (FIG. 18). As yet a further alternative, a fiberoptic bundle 104 forming a light pipe may be positioned to dischargelight behind lens 64. Fiber optic bundle 104 passes through breakawayjoint 44 in wire-way 50 in order to transmit light from a source (notshown) within vehicle 40. By way of example, lens 64 may be supplied asa segmented lens, a prismatic lens, or a Fresnel lens in order togenerate light patterns 66 and 72. Bracket 43 and breakaway joint 44 aremarketed by Donnelly Corporation, the present assignee, of Holland,Mich. The remote actuator composed of remote transmitting device 76 andstationary receiving device 78 may be radio frequency coupled, as isconventional. Alternatively, they may be infrared coupled as illustratedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,258,352.

[0087] Although the invention is illustrated in a mirror assemblyutilizing an automatic remote actuator, it may also be applied to manualremote actuators and handset actuators. As previously set forth,reflectance element 28 may be conventional or may be supplied as anelectrochromic self-dimming mirror. Although the invention isillustrated with breakaway joint 44, the invention may also be appliedto mirrors that are rigidly mounted to the vehicle.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 21-23, the numeral 210 generally designates adriver's side exterior mirror assembly of the present invention, withthe numeral 210′ generally designating a passenger's side exteriormirror assembly of the present invention which is preferably a mirrorimage of driver's side exterior mirror assembly 210. Exterior rearviewmirror assembly 210 includes a mirror casing or housing 212, whichincludes a sail 213 that is adapted to mount on a vehicle, a reflectiveelement 214, which is supported in casing 212, and a signal light 216which is also supported in casing 212. Signal light 216 is adapted todirect light into the blind spot of the driver and, preferably, providesa light forwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle so that vehiclesapproaching the vehicle may observe the signal light. Additionally,signal light 216 is adapted to project light laterally with respect tothe vehicle to provide a side light and so function as a side marker.Furthermore, it should be understood that light pattern 217 is generallycone shaped and may project above and below the horizontal planeextending through mirror assembly 210 similar to the illustration inFIG. 15 and preferably projects light above and below the horizontalplane by in a range of about 5° to about 25° and, more preferably, about15°. As will be more fully described, signal light 216 is preferablyadapted to direct the light in a light pattern 217 (with passenger sideexterior rearview mirror assembly 210′ having a mirror image lightpattern 217′), such that the light does not extend into the cabin of thevehicle to distract the driver of the vehicle. Furthermore, byprojecting light rearwardly, forwardly, and to the side of the vehicle,approaching vehicles, whether from the forward direction of the vehicleor from the rearward direction of the vehicle or vehicles that areentering the blind spot of the vehicle, can observe the signal light andhave advanced notice that the driver of the vehicle intends to make alane change or turn.

[0089] Rearview mirror assembly 210 may comprise a fixed positionexterior rearview mirror assembly or may comprise a break-away rearviewmirror assembly, which moves between a normal operating position, inwhich the rearview mirror assembly is extended from the vehicle, to afolded position against the body of the vehicle when the exteriorrearview mirror assembly 210 is impacted with sufficient force.Reference is made to the previous embodiment, exterior mirror assembly26, for one example of a break-away rearview mirror assembly.

[0090] Casing 212 is cup shaped and includes a rearwardly facing opening212 a in which reflective element 214 is supported. Casing 212 ispreferably injection molded from a suitable plastic, such as nylon,acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or suitable resinous plastic, orthe like, which is commercially available under the trademark TERLURANKR2889®, by BASF Company of Wyandotte, Mich. Alternately, otherresinous, melt processible plastics or moldable materials such asmineral-filled or glass filled nylon or polyester and polypropylenecould be used to form case 212. A suitable nylon is 13% glass modifiednylon 6:6 sold as ZYTEL 71G13L® by I.E. DuPont de Nemours & Company ofWilmington, Del., or PA123G13BK-47 by Bay Resins Inc. of Millington, Md.A suitable polypropylene is TENITE P6M4Z-007® by Eastman ChemicalProducts, Inc., Kingsport, Tenn. Alternately, casing 212 may comprise afiber reinforced nylon plastic, thermoplastic, or polypropylene or othersimilar thermoplastic or thermoset materials.

[0091] As described above, reflective element 214 is supported in casing212. As best seen in FIG. 24, reflective element 214 is mounted to abacking plate 214 a which is supported by a positioning device, such asan actuator 218, which provides adjustment for reflective element 214.Actuator 218 is supported on a mounting bracket 220, which in turn issecured to casing 212 on mounting bosses 222 provided on casing wall224. In the illustrated embodiment, actuator 218 comprises an electricalactuator, which pivots reflective element 214 in casing 212. Preferably,actuator 218 comprises dual axis positioning device that permitsadjustment of the position of the reflective element 214 and backingplate 214 a about both vertical and horizontal axes as is known in theart. It should be understood, however, other positioning devices may beused including manually operated actuators, a remote manually operatedactuators, such as a BODEN cable actuator, or the like.

[0092] Reflective mirror element 214 may comprise a conventionalnon-electro optic planar or convex mirror element including a metallicreflector coated glass substrate, such as with a thin chromium orchromium alloy reflector coating, or a non-metallic reflector layer,such as a dichroic layer as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,492 toRoberts et al. or a reflector comprising a silicon reflective layer suchas described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,535,056 to Caskey et al., which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Alternatively,reflective element 214 may comprise a variable reflective electro opticelement, such as electrochromic mirror element comprising one of severaltypes of electrochromic elements, for example an element of theelectrochemichromic type, which is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,140,455issued to Varaprasad et al., or may be of the solid state type such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,879 issued to Niall R. Lynam et al.,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/023,675, filed Feb. 22, 1993, byVaraprasad et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,002,511, filed Feb. 8, 1994, byVaraprasad et al., and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/238,521,filed Mar. 5, 1994, by Varaprasad et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,663,all commonly assigned with the present application to DonnellyCorporation of Holland, Mich., the disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties. Such electrochromicelements comprise an electrically responsive electrochromic medium thatmodulates reflectivity from a reflective element. Such electrochromicmirror elements are continuously variable and exhibit multiplereflectant states as the voltage applied thereto is varied. Alternately,reflective element 214 may comprise other electro optic mirror elementssuch as a liquid crystal mirror and the like. Where reflective element214 comprises an electrochromic mirror element, the electrochromicmirror element is preferably driven by signals produced by a variablereflectant system of the type disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 08/316,047 for a “Modular Variable Reflectant Mirror Assembly”,filed Sep. 30, 1994, by Kenneth L. Schierbeek et al., now U.S. Pat. No.5,659,423 which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0093] It should be understood, although not described herein, that oneor more electrical or electronic components may be mounted in casing212, such as the interface transaction system described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/057,428 entitled A VEHICLE MOUNTED REMOTETRANSACTION INTERFACE SYSTEM filed by Martin DeVries and Niall R. Lynamon Apr. 8, 1998 (attorney docket no. DONO1 P-696), now U.S. Pat. No.6,158,655, and/or an electronic module, which may include one or moreelectrical or electronic devices, such as antennas and circuitry forrain sensors, heating elements, and the like, as described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/702,228 entitled MODULAR REARVIEW MIRRORASSEMBLY INCLUDING ELECTRONIC MODULE, which was filed Aug. 23, 1996, byNiall Lynam et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,475, and which are commonlyassigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich., the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

[0094] As best seen in FIGS. 22 and 26, signal light 216 is positionedin a lower portion or bottom rim of casing 212 and includes a lightconduiting member or light pipe 230 and a light source 232. The color ofthe light emitted from signal light 216 is preferably amber,yellow-amber, or amber-red, depending on its application and may begenerated by a boot or cover, a filter, a reflector which surrounds thelight source, the light source or the light pipe or a combination of oneor more of the aforementioned devices. For example, light source 232 mayproduce, for example an amber light from a coating on the light sourcebulb or from a gas enclosed in the bulb or from the light producingelement of the light source. In addition, signal light 216 preferablyproduces a light intensity of at least about 0.3 and in the range ofabout 0.3 to about 200 candela, more preferably, in a range of about 0.6to about 150 candela, and most preferably, in a range of about 1.0candela to about 25 candela, such that signal light 216 preferably meetsthe specification for the applicable automobile industry standards suchas Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) 5500; ECE Reg. 48; EEC No. 76/759;and/or E/ECE/324 Reg. No. 6. Moreover, signal light 216 may produce avariable light pattern intensity. For example, referring to FIG. 21, inthe region 217 c of light pattern 217 which is forward of transverseaxis 211 b, the light intensity may have one intensity value, while theregion 217 d rearward of transverse axis 211 b may include another lightintensity value. Furthermore, each region 217 c or 217 d may have avariable intensity pattern. For example, the portion of the region 217 cor 217 d nearest to axis 211 b may have a higher light intensity thanportions of the region 217 c or 217 d angled further away from axis 211b. In this manner, signal light 216 is visible to persons on the roadwho are approaching the vehicle from the forward or rearward directionor persons located adjacent the vehicle.

[0095] Light pipe 230 is preferably formed, such as by molding, from aplastic, such as polycarbonate, acrylic or the like, and is, therefore,substantially rigid. Alternately, light pipe 230 may comprise a flexiblebundle of individual fibers or an individual flexible fiber.Furthermore, light pipe 230 is adapted to transmit or direct light fromlight source 232 along a longitudinal axis 230 a of light pipe 230 andreflect the light from light source 232 as it extends through the lightpipe in directions generally lateral to the longitudinal axis 230 a oflight pipe 230, as will be more fully described below.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 26, light pipe 230 includes a first side 234,which provides a light emitting surface and is substantially planar, andan opposed side 236 which includes a plurality of faceted surfaces 238.Faceted surfaces 238 provide internal light reflecting surfaces and havea stepped configuration, with the cross-section of light pipe 230 beingincrementally reduced from a first end or approximate end 240 to asecond end or distal end 242. Light pipe 230 is preferably positioned incasing 212 such that first end 240 is positioned closer to the vehiclethan second end 242 and such that first side 234 is oriented facingoutwardly from casing 212. Moreover, light pipe 230 is preferablypositioned in casing 212 with minimal protrusion into the slipstream ofthe mirror assembly so as to reduce the aerodynamic drag and, mostpreferably, with first side 234 substantially flush with the outersurface of the lower portion or bottom rim of casing 212. First end 240is substantially planar and generally orthogonal to first side 234 anddefines a light input surface 244. Light source 232 is positionedadjacent light input surface 244 and preferably in substantially closeproximity to light input surface 244 so that a high percentage, if notall, light emitted from light source 232 is directed into light pipe230. Optionally, light source 232 may be optically coupled to lightinput surface 244 by, for example, an optical adhesive.

[0097] As described above, first side 234 of light pipe 230 provideslight emitting surface 245, through which light from light source 232 isemitted. Again referring to FIG. 26, when light enters light pipe 230through light input surface 244, the light rays are internally reflectedoff faceted surfaces 238 and, some of which, are internally reflectedoff planar surface 234 a of first side 234 so that the light from lightsource 232 is directed laterally through first side 234 and throughlight emitting surface 245 in directions which are angled with respectto first side 234. In preferred form, the light pattern emitted lightpipe 230 includes a plurality of light regions which are angled awayfrom the side of the vehicle to restrict the light from entering intothe vehicle. In this manner, light pipe 230 transmits or conduits thelight from light source 232. It should be understood that the geometryof light pipe 230 permits light pipe 230 to direct light in a mannerthat relies on internal reflections within light pipe 230; therefore, noreflective coatings are necessary. Consequently, light pipe 230 iseasier and less costly to manufacture. However, it can be appreciatedthat faceted surfaces 238 may include reflective coatings, such asformed by vacuum metalizing.

[0098] As best seen in FIG. 24, light pipe 230 is mounted between alower or bottom wall portion 224 a of casing wall 224 and a flange 246which extends from a back wall portion 224 b of casing wall 224.Similarly, light source 232 is supported between flange 246 and lowerportion 224 a of casing wall 224 and is positioned adjacent first end240 of light pipe 230, as described above. It should be understood fromthe foregoing, that reflective element 214 is independently mounted fromlight pipe 230 and, therefore, can move independently from light pipe230, which is preferably mounted in a fixed position in casing 212.

[0099] Optionally, signal light 216 includes a second light pipe 250.Light pipe 250 is a similar construction to light pipe 230, except thatlight pipe 250 includes a curved outer surface 252 which follows thecurvature of casing 212 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 and which defines alight emitting surface. Light pipe 250 includes a first or approximateend 254, which provides a light input surface, and a second or distalend 256. As best seen in FIG. 23, light pipe 250 wraps around casing 212to permit light to be reflected generally laterally from exteriorrearview assembly 210 to provide a side signal or side marker to carswhich are positioned in the blind spot of the vehicle. A second lightsource 258 is positioned adjacent first end 254 so that light which isemitted from light source 258 is directed along the longitudinal axis250 a of light pipe 250 and laterally with respect to longitudinal axis250 a in a similar manner to light pipe 230.

[0100] Preferably, light pipes 230 and 250 direct light in light pattern217, shown in FIG. 21. Light pattern 217 is defined between leadingedges 217 a and 217 b, wherein leading edge 217 a forms an angle α withrespect to the vehicle axis 211 a of vehicle 211, as measured in acounter clock-wise direction, and leading edge 217 b forms an angle βwith respect to vehicle axis 211 a as measured in a clock-wisedirection. These angles vary depending upon the applicable guidelines orspecifications of the country in which the vehicle is sold. For example,α may be in a range of about 0° to about 45°. β may be in a range ofabout 0° to about 15°. In some countries, α may be in a range of about0° to about 40°, and β may be in a range of about 0° to about 5°.

[0101] Light sources 232 and 258 are preferably energized by power lines260 which extend through flange 246 so that they can be bundled alongwith other power or communication lines which extend from exteriormirror casing 212 to the interior of the vehicle to couple light sources232 and 258 to the electrical system of the vehicle. Light sources 232and 258 may comprise a laser diode, a solid state emitter such as alight emitting diode, an incandescent light source, a fluorescent lightsource, such as a cold cathode fluorescent light, a phosphorous lamp, aneon light, a discharge lamp, an arc lamp, and an electro-luminescentlight, including inorganic or organic electro-luminescent sources.

[0102] Optionally, two or more of such light sources may be incorporatedinto exterior mirror assembly 210 for directing light into therespective light input surfaces 244 and 256 of light pipes 230 and 250,respectively. Furthermore, a plurality of light emitting sources may begrouped to provide a more intense illumination. As described above, avariety of emitting sources may be used as light emitting sources 232and 258, including but not limited to a very high intensity amber andreddish-orange light emitting diode (LED) sources, such as solid statelight emitting diode sources utilizing double hetero-junctionAlGaAs/GaAs Material Technology, such as very high intensity LED lampT-1¾ (5 mm) HLMT-4100/4101, available from Hewlett Packard Corporation,Palo Alto, Calif., for which used transparent substrate aluminum indiumgallium phosphide (AlInGaB) Material Technology, commercially availablefrom Hewlett Packard Corporation under the designation T-1¾ (5 mm)HLMT-DL00, HLMT-CH00, HLMT-CL00, HLMT-CH15, HLMT-DH00 or which useInGaAlB Material Technology available from Toshiba Corporation ofLaythem, N.Y. such as under the designation TLRH180D. Light emittancecolors provided by such solid state sources include orange, yellow,amber, and reddish-orange, preferably without the need for ancillaryfilters. The preferred solid state light emitting diodes operate at 25°C., or thereabouts, and operate with a forward voltage of about 2 voltsto about 5 volts; have a luminance intensity (measured at peak of thespacial radiation pattern which may not be aligned with a mechanicalaccess of the source package) of a minimum at 20 mA current of about 500to about 5,000 lcd (typically about 700 to about 7,000 mcd); operated ata forward current of about 20 mA to about 50 mA; emit with a dominantwave length (CE Chromaticity diagram) of about 530 nm to about 60 nm;and have a viewing angle to θ½, where θ½ is the off axis angle where theluminance intensity is ½ the peak intensity of about 5° to about 25°.

[0103] Alternately, vacuum fluorescent sources such as 12-volt batterydriven high luminescent vacuum fluorescent sources may be used. It mayalso be advantageous to use sources which operate efficiently at about12 volts or lower since these voltages are particularly suited toconventional motor vehicle electrical systems. Also, ultra highluminescent vacuum fluorescent sources such as those suitable for headset display applications in motor vehicles may be used with appropriatecircuitry.

[0104] Alternately, non-LED non-incandescent light emitting sources canbe used such as electro-luminescent sources or semiconductor lasersources. Electro-luminescent sources may be either inorganic or organicelectro-luminescent sources. Light emitting sources 232 and 258,preferably have well defined light patterns, such as a cone of directedlight which eliminates the need for reflectors or other separate opticalcomponents that direct the light where desired. In addition, lightemitting sources 232 and 258 are preferably mounted on or within mirrorcasing 212 as described previously. Alternately, light sources 232 and258 may be in the form of a light pipe which directs light from a remotelight source located in the vehicle. Such a light pipe may comprise, forexample a flexible light pipe such as a fiber optic cable. In whichcase, the distal end of the fiber optic cable is positioned adjacent therespective light input surfaces 244 and 256 of light pipes 230 and 250.

[0105] In the event that the light emitting source comprises a lightemitting diode, a resistor is preferably connected in series with arespective light emitting diode to act as a voltage divider so as toreduce the ignition voltage of the vehicle, which is in the range of9-16 volts (normally 12 volts), for the desired operating voltage of thelight emitting diode, which is typically on the order of about one voltto about five volts. Each resistor preferably has a resistance of lessthan about 1,500 ohms and greater than about 100 ohms, more preferably,less than about 1,000 ohms and greater than about 200 ohms.

[0106] Although illustrated herein as being located along the bottom rimof the exterior trim housing, other locations are possible for thesignal light of the invention, including the top and outboard rim of theexterior housing, and even elsewhere on the exterior vehicle body asappropriate.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 27-29, a second embodiment 310 of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated.Exterior rearview mirror assembly 310 includes a housing or casing 312in which a reflective element 314 is supported. In addition, exteriorrearview mirror assembly 310 includes a signal light and, preferably, asignal light 316 which provides a light pattern similar to light pattern217 described in reference to the first embodiment and is supported bycasing 312 which will be further described below.

[0108] Reflective element 314 is mounted to a backing plate 314 a, whichis supported on a positioning device or actuator 318, which in turn ismounted to a mounting bracket 320. In the illustrated embodiment,mounting bracket 320 is supported by mounting bosses 322 provided oncasing wall 324 of casing 312. It should be understood, that reflectiveelement 314, therefore, can move independently of the signal light 316,which is preferably mounted in a fixed position relative to casing 312.However, other mounting arrangement may be used for reflective element314 and for the exterior rearview assembly, including a fixed positionexterior rearview mirror assembly or a mounting arrangement in whichmounting bracket is rotatably coupled to a vehicle mounting bracket toprovide a break-away function of the exterior rearview mirror assembly.In a break-away exterior mirror assembly, signal light 316 is preferablymounted to move with the casing and, therefore, remains fixed relativeto the casing.

[0109] As best seen in FIG. 27, signal light 316 is mounted to a bottomwall portion 326 of casing wall 324. Bottom wall portion 326 of casingwall 324 includes a stop or an abutment 328 against which signal light316 abuts when mounted to casing 312. Signal light 316 is preferablymounted to casing 312 by for example fasteners, such as threadedfasteners, keys, or projecting pins with enlarged heads which provide asnap-fit coupling between signal light 316 and bottom wall 326.Alternately, signal light 316 may include tracks or guides and withcasing 312 including a corresponding guide or track so that signal light316 can be inserted between the respective guides, or tracks.Furthermore, signal light 316 includes a lower most surface 316 a whichpreferably aligns and, more preferably, is flush with the lower mostsurface 328 a of stop 328 so that when installed, signal light 316follows the aerodynamic contours of casing 312 to provide anaerodynamically contoured exterior rearview mirror assembly 310.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, signal light 316 includes a housing330 which includes a cover 331 and a base 332. Base 332 includes amounting portion and a raised or projecting portion 333 which defines amounting surface 334. Housing 330 is preferably plastic, such as nylon,a melt processible plastic, including for example polycarbonate,acrylic, or the like and, additionally, matches the color of casing 312.Cover 331, which is preferably a clear plastic cover, extends over base332 and is secured thereto using conventional means, including forexample releasable couplers, including threaded fasteners, snap-fitcouplers or the like, or by welding, such as sonic welding, heat stakingor the like, or by an adhesive. Cover 331 defines a cavity or space 332a between base 332 and cover 331. Base 332 supports a light source 342,which is housed in cavity 332 a, and a light reflecting member 335 whichis preferably mounted to mounting surface 334 for reflecting light fromlight source 342 outwardly from signal light 316. Light reflectingmember 335 preferably comprises a multi-faceted reflector having acompound shape and includes a plurality of reflector elements 336, 338,and 340. Each reflector elements 336, 338, and 340 may comprise a metalreflector, such as a stamped aluminum reflector, a polished metalreflector, a painted/coated printed surface with a high specular and/ordiffused paint, film, tape, coating, or the like, a vacuum metalizedsubstrate, such as vacuum metalized glass or plastic, a metalized orreflective mineral filled substrate, such as a mineral filled plasticsubstrate, a reflective metal filled substrate, such as a metal filledplastic, or the like. Each of the respective reflective elements 336,338, and 340 may have a concave, a convex, or planar surface, or amultiradius surface such as an anamorphic asphere shape.

[0111] Preferably light source 342 is positioned adjacent reflectorelement 336 and sufficiently spaced from reflector element 336 such thatthe light emitted from light source 342 reflects off reflector elements336, 338, and 440 to provide a pattern as shown in FIG. 28. Light source342 may comprise a bulb, a diode, or the like, and is powered throughwiring 343 which extends from signal light 316 to casing 312, forexample by way of an opening 330 a provided in base portion 332 ofhousing 330. Optionally, light source 342 may comprise a light pipe (notshown) which delivers or directs light from a remote light source in thevehicle in a similar manner as described in reference to the previousembodiment.

[0112] As described above, cover 331 may be integrally molded with baseportion 332. In this manner, light source 342 may be inserted intocavity 332 a through opening 330 a of base 332. Furthermore, cavity 332a may be reduced such that cavity 332 a comprises a light sourcereceiving socket. In addition, signal light 316 may include a lightconduiting member, such as described in reference to signal light 216 orsignal light 416, positioned in cavity or space 332 a to further enhancethe direction of light emitted from light source 342.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 28, signal light 316 emits light in a lightpattern 344, which is defined between leading edges 346 and 348. Whenmounted to casing 312, light pattern 344 directs light forwardly andrearwardly of the vehicle and to the side of the vehicle but away fromthe cabin of the vehicle so as to avoid contact with the driver's eyessimilar to light pattern 217 in FIG. 21.

[0114] As best seen in FIG. 27, cover or lens 331 extends over housing330 from a first end or approximate end 352 to a second or distal end354. For further details of light source 342, reference is made to thedescription of light sources 232 and 258 as described in reference tothe first embodiment. Preferably, cover 331 includes a neutral spectracontent and comprises a plastic lens, such as a polycarbonate lens.Furthermore, cover 331 may be a prescription lens such as, a fresnellens, including a micro fresnel lens, a diffusive optic lens, adiffractive optic lens, a refractive optic lens, a reflective opticlens, a holographic optic lens, a binary optic lens, a clear optic lens,a prismatic lens, a pillow lens, and a sinusoidal optic lens, or thelike. In which case, the color of the light from signal light 316 may beintroduced by light source 342, a boot or cover over light source 342, afilter, or reflector 335. Similar to as described in reference to lightsources 232 and 258, signal light 316 may emit an amber, yellow-amber,or red-amber light. Furthermore, cover 331 may optionally blend with thecolor of casing 312, with signal light 316 still emitting an amber,amber-yellow or red-amber light. Alternately, the color of the light maybe generated by cover 331 or a combination of any one or more of theaforementioned devices.

[0115] Preferably, signal light 316 produces a light intensity in therange of about 0.3 to about 200 candela, more preferably, in a range ofabout 0.6 to about 150 candela, and most preferably, in a range of about1.0 to about 100 candela, such that signal light 316 preferably meetsthe applicable specifications for the automobile industry, as describedin the previous embodiment. In this manner, signal light 316 is visibleto persons on the road who are oncoming or approaching the vehicle fromthe rearward direction. Furthermore, signal light 316 preferably extendsto the outer most portion and wraps around the bottom wall 326 of casing312 so that light emitted from signal light 316 is visible from the sideof the vehicle, and vehicles which are in the vehicle's blind spot canclearly see the signal light when actuated.

[0116] Preferably, signal light 316 is a unitary module or modular turnsignal which can be easily serviced and/or replaced in its entirety.Furthermore, signal light 316 is preferably at least substantially waterimpervious and optionally may include a socket or electrical connectionto the vehicle electrical wiring system. In addition, as described inreference to the previous embodiment, signal light 316 may incorporate acircuit board for flexible circuitry, which couples to the electricalsystem of the vehicle for powering light source 342.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 30-31, the numeral 410 designates a thirdembodiment of the exterior rearview assembly of the present invention.Exterior rearview assembly 410 includes a mirror casing or housing 412,which includes a sail 413 which is adapted to mount on a vehicle, areflective element 414 which is supported in housing 412, and a signallight 416 which is also supported in housing 412. Signal light 416 isadapted to direct light forwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle so thatvehicles approaching from the opposite direction of the vehicle andrearwardly of the vehicle may observe signal light 416. Additionally,signal light 416 is adapted to project light laterally with respect tothe vehicle to provide a side light and so function as a side marker.Similar to exterior mirror assembly 210, signal light 416 is preferablyadapted to direct the signal light in a light pattern 417 such that thelight does not extend into the cabin of the vehicle to distract thedriver of the vehicle. Furthermore, by projecting light rearwardly,forwardly and laterally from the side of the vehicle, approachingvehicles, whether from the forward direction of the vehicle or from therearward direction of the vehicle or vehicles that are entering theblind spot of the vehicle, can observe the signal light and haveadvanced notice if the driver of the vehicle intends to make a lanechange or turn.

[0118] Rearview mirror assembly 410 may comprise a fixed positionexterior rearview mirror assembly or may comprise a break-away rearviewmirror assembly, which moves between normal operating position in whichthe rearview mirror assembly is extended from the vehicle to a foldedposition against the body of the vehicle and the exterior rearviewmirror assembly 410 is impacted with sufficient force. Examples ofbreak-away rearview mirror assemblies are well known and reference ismade to the first embodiment of the exterior rearview mirror assemblyfor at least one example such a break-away assembly.

[0119] Housing 412 is generally cup-shaped and includes a rearwardlyfacing opening 412 a in which reflective element 414 is supported.Reference is made to exterior rearview mirror assembly 210 for examplesof preferred material for housing 412. As described above, reflectiveelement 414 is supported in housing 412. Preferably, reflective element414 is mounted on a backing plate 414 a, which in turn is supported by apositioning device, for example an electrical actuator or the like.Again, reference is made to the exterior rearview mirror assembly 210for an example of how reflective element 414 is supported in housing412. Furthermore, reference is made to exterior rearview mirror assembly210 for examples of preferred reflective elements and for examples ofother components which may be mounted or housed in exterior rearviewmirror assembly 410.

[0120] As best seen in FIGS. 30 and 31, signal light 416 is preferablypositioned in a lower portion or bottom rim of casing 412 and includes alight conduiting member or light pipe 430 and a plurality of lightsources 432. As described in reference to the previous embodiments, thelight emitted from the signal light 416 is preferably yellow, amber,yellow-amber, or amber-red depending on its application. Again,reference is made to the earlier embodiments for examples of how thecolor is generated. Light pipe 430 is preferably formed, such as bymolding, from a plastic material, such as polycarbonate or acrylic orthe like, and is, therefore, substantially rigid. As best seen in FIG.31, light pipe 430 includes a plurality of light transmitting orconduiting portions 430 a, which are spaced and arranged in a generallyradial fashion. Each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 aincludes a leading edge 434, which defines a light input surface.Furthermore, each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 aincludes a distal surface or outboard edge 436 which defines a lightemitting surface which is preferably arranged or formed, to follow thecontour of exterior mirror housing 412. In addition, each lighttransmitting or conduiting portion 430 a includes side walls 438 and440, which extend from light input surface 434 outwardly toward lightemitting surface 436 which define radially extending grooves or channelsin light conduiting member 430. As best seen in FIG. 31, side walls 438and 440 preferably terminate before reaching light emitting surface 436.Alternately, one or more light conduiting portions may includerespective side walls 438 and 440 that extend from their respectivelight input surfaces 434 to their respective light emitting surfaces436. In this manner, light pipe 430 comprises a plurality of discretelight transmitting or conduiting portions rather than a unitary lightconduiting or transmitting member.

[0121] Light sources 432 are positioned and, preferably, opticallycoupled to light input surfaces 434 of each respective lighttransmitting or conduiting portion 430 a. Referring to FIGS. 31A and31B, in the illustrated embodiment, light sources 432 comprise surfacelight emitting diodes (LED's) and preferably comprise a flat rectangularwafer 432 a with a projecting emitter 432 b, which are commerciallyavailable from the Piranha line of Hewlett Packard. In preferred form,each light input surface 434 includes a recess and, more preferably, acylindrical groove 434 a for receiving the respective light emittingportion 432 b of the light source 432. In this manner, the lightemitters 432 b of the respective LED's may achieve good optical couplingwith light input surfaces 434. Alternatively, each of the respectivelight input surfaces 434 of light transmitting conduiting portions 430 amay include a semi-spherical recess for receiving the respective lightemitters of the light sources 432, which will maximize the opticalcoupling between light sources 432 and light conduiting portions.However, semi-spherical recesses are harder to tool and to assembly.

[0122] Light input surfaces 434 of each light transmitting or conduitingportion 430 a are generally parallel or only slightly angled withrespect to its respective light emitting surface 436 such that the lightemitted from the respective light source 432 will project outwardly fromlight emitting surface with minimal reflection inwardly from the lightemitting surface. Furthermore, sides 438 and 440 are angled with respectto light input surface 434 such that light from light source 432 isinternally reflected and redirected outwardly from light emittingsurface 436. In so doing, light pipe 430 optimizes the internalreflection of each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 a toefficiently direct the light emitted from light source 432, which tendsto project light in a cone shape light pattern, outwardly through lightemitting surface 436.

[0123] Signal light 416 preferably comprises a module which ispreferably removably inserted into a slotted opening or recess 412 bformed in housing 412 of exterior rearview mirror assembly 410.Preferably, signal light 416 includes a lower housing portion 442 and anupper housing portion or cover 444. Upper housing portion 444 may besecured to lower housing portion 442 by conventional fasteners, forexample fasteners, including screws, snap-fit couplers, or the like,such that light sources 432 are serviceable, or may be welded or adheredto housing 442, for example by sonic welding, heat staking, or anadhesive, so that signal light 416 can be replaced as a unit. Lightconduiting member 430 is positioned in lower housing portion 442 and ispreferably integrally molded with housing portion 442 such that lightemitting surface or surfaces 436 of light pipe 430 form a portion of theouter perimeter wall 446. However, it should be understood that lightconduiting member 430 may be separately formed from housing portion 442and, instead, inserted into housing and positioned such that lightemitting surface or surfaces 436 is optically coupled to perimeter wall446.

[0124] In preferred form, lower housing portion 442 is formed or moldedfrom a clear plastic, including for example polycarbonate, acrylic, orthe like. In contrast, upper housing portion 444 may comprise anysuitable plastic, for example a melt-processible plastic or moldablematerial, such as described in reference to casing 212. Furthermore,upper housing portion 444 may be opaque.

[0125] Each of the respective light sources 432 includes electricalwiring 447, which extends through housing 442 and through an opening 448provided in perimeter wall 446 of housing 442. Optionally, perimeterwall 448 may include an electrical outlet or plug to which theelectrical wiring is coupled for coupling to the electrical system ofthe vehicle. In addition, light sources 432 may be coupled to andpowered by a circuit board mounted in housing 442, which is electricallycoupled to the electrical system of the vehicle. Furthermore, lightsources 432 may be powered by flexible circuitry, which is electricallycoupled to the electrical system of the vehicle, or any other suitableconventional power supply system. Alternately, each individual wire mayproject from housing 442 for individually coupling to the electricalsystem of the vehicle.

[0126] As best seen in FIG. 31, upper housing portion 444 includes oneor more retaining clips 450 for securing to a corresponding structureprovided in housing 412. In the illustrated embodiment, retainingmembers 450 comprises conventional bayonet or snap type couplers, but itshould be understood that other couplers, such as threaded fasteners, orthe like, may be used. As described in preferred form, light conduitingor transmitting portions 430 a rely on internal reflections of the lightemitted from light sources 432 to transmit or conduit the light fromlight source to light emitting surfaces 436. In this manner, lightconduiting member 430 is easy to manufacture and assembly and relies onthe geometry of the light input surfaces and side walls in order toproduce an effective signal light 416 rather than reflections fromreflective surfaces. However, it should be understood, that side walls438 and 440 may include reflective surfaces, such as vacuum metalizedsurfaces or the like. However, this would entail additionalmanufacturing steps and require more careful handling of the articleand, consequently, would increase the cost of the signal light 416.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 32A, signal light 416′ may include bulb shapedlight sources 432′. In a similar manner to signal light 416, light inputsurfaces 434′ of light conduiting members 430′ may include recessedportions 434 a′ for receiving the respective bulb shaped light emitters432′.

[0128] As best seen in FIG. 32B, a third embodiment 416″ of signal lightincludes a single light source 432″ such as a conventional light bulb toemit light for input into the respective light input surfaces 434″ ofeach respective light conduiting portion 430 a″ of light pipe 430″.

[0129] It should be understood from the foregoing, that light pipes 430,430′, and 430″ are formed with respective side walls 438 and 440, 438′and 440′, and 438″ and 440″ to guide the light from the respective lightsource or light sources 432, 432′, 432″, to the outboard edge 431, 431′,431″ of light pipe 430 to form a signal light which directs lightrearwardly, laterally, and forwardly of the vehicle. Whether light pipes430, 430′, 430″ are formed as a single unit with a plurality of lighttransmitting or conduiting portions 430 a, 430 a′, 430 a″, or as acollection of discrete light transmitting or conduiting portions, inwhich case discrete regions of light will be produced, signal lights416, 416′, and 416″ provide simple and inexpensive light assemblieswhich are easy to manufacture and install.

[0130] It should be understood that should it be desired to vary theintensity of the signal lights so they are brightest during high ambientlighting conditions, such as on a sunny day, but so that they are dimmerwhen ambient conditions are lower, such as at night, the intensity ofthe signal lights can be modulated using a photosensor such as aphotoresistor, photodiode, phototransistor, or their like. A photosensorthat controls the intensity of the signal light so that it reduces itsintensity during low ambient light driving conditions, such as by pulsewidth modulation on the electrical line powering the LEDs in the signallight, may be mounted integrally with the signal light module itself, orit may be part of the vehicle electronics itself, such as a photosensormounted as a part of an automatic electrochromic mirror circuit, as partof a vehicle automatic headlamp activation circuit, as part of aheadlamp daylight running light control circuit, or their like.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 33-37, the numeral 510 designates a fourthembodiment of the exterior rearview assembly of the present invention.Exterior rearview assembly 510 comprises a powerfold exterior rearviewmirror assembly and includes a housing or casing 512 in which areflective element 514 is supported. Reflective element 514 isoptionally supported in casing 512 in a similar manner to that describedin reference to the earlier embodiment and, therefore, reference is madetherein for further mounting details and, additionally, for examples ofreflective elements which can be employed. In preferred form, exteriorrearview assembly 510 includes a “powerfold” mechanism that is typicallyoperated and actuatable/deactuatable from within the vehicle cabineither by a user operator switch or by a speed sensor that folds themirror out when a predetermined vehicle velocity is sensed and that uponactivation by the driver causes a folding portion 510 a of exteriormirror assembly 510, for example casing 512, to fold or move or pivotabout a fold-away axis 511 on a non-folding portion 510 b of exteriormirror assembly 510, for example a mounting bracket or the like, fromits normally extended viewing position wherein mirror assembly 510provides a field of view to a compact folded position wherein therearwardly facing side of the folding portion is disposed generallyparallel to the vehicle body (FIGS. 34 and 35). “Powerfold” exteriorrearview mirrors are conventional and, therefore, the specific detailsof the “powerfold” mechanisms are omitted herein. In many Europeancountries, “powerfold” exterior rearview mirror assemblies are usedduring parking to reduce the width of the vehicle.

[0132] In addition, exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 includes asecurity light and, preferably, a self-contained, unitary security lightmodule 516 which in the illustrated embodiment is mounted to foldingportion 510 a of mirror assembly 510 on a bottom wall portion 526 ofcasing wall 512 a (FIG. 36). Security light 516 is preferably of similarconstruction to unitary light module 200 described in application Ser.No. 08/687,628 entitled EXTERIOR VEHICLE SECURITY LIGHT, filed on Jul.26, 1996, by Todd W. Pastrick et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,651, whichis assigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich. and which isincorporated herein in its entirety. Security light 516 includes ahousing 518, in which a light source 520 and reflector 522 aresupported, and a cover or lens 524. Housing 518 is preferably a plasticmaterial, such as polycarbonate, polyester, nylon, acetal, polypropyleneor ABS. Cover 524 is optionally welded to housing 518, for example bysonic welding, heat staking or the like, or adhesively attached by anadhesive. Reflector 520 may comprise, for example a polished metalsubstrate, a vacuum metalized substrate, or a metal filled substrate. Asbest seen in FIG. 33-37, reflector 520 and lens 524 are adapted todirect light in a light pattern 517. For further details of thecomponents of security light 516, reference is made to the aboveincorporated pending patent application. As described in the referencedapplication, security light 516 is adapted to direct light generallyrearwardly of the vehicle and to fan out laterally from the vehicle toprovide a lighted security zone near or adjacent the vehicle.Furthermore, security light 516 is preferably mounted in orsubstantially incorporated to casing 512 with minimal protrusion fromcasing 512 into the slipstream such that security light 516 does not addto the aerodynamic drag of mirror assembly 510 and, most preferably,with lens 524 substantially flush with the outer surface of casing 512.Moreover, in preferred form, at least security light 516 or light source520 is serviceable.

[0133] As best seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, security light 516 may beoptionally rotationally mounted in casing 512 such that when foldingportion 510 a of exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 is moved to itscompact folded position, security light 516 remains in the sameorientation with respect to the vehicle such that the light pattern 517which is projected from security light 516 remains substantiallyunchanged despite the repositioning of exterior rearview mirror assembly510. In other words, security light 516 remains stationary with respectto vehicle V but rotates in casing 512 when exterior mirror assembly 510moves to its folded position.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 36, security light 516 is mounted in an opening512 b in casing wall 512 a. Security light 516 is mounted in opening 512b by a rotatable sleeve or bushing 530 so that security light 516 isrotatable about its axis 516 a. In this manner, security light 512 ismovably or rotatably mounted in casing 512. Preferably, exterior mirrorassembly 510 includes an actuator or driver 528 such as a gear or othersuitable mechanism, including a servo-motor driver, a belt, a cylinder,including a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or the like, whichrepositions or rotates security light 516 about axis 516 a to maintainlight pattern 517 in a generally fixed position with respect to thevehicle. As best seen in FIG. 36, gear 528 may engage threads 518 aformed on a lower portion of or a threaded collar mounted to housing518.

[0135] Furthermore, exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 may alsoinclude a break-away mounting which permits the exterior mirror assemblyto fold to a break-away position upon impact. Both of the powerfold andbreak-away features are commonly known in the mirror art.

[0136] Alternately, security light 516 may be mounted in folding portion510 a in a fixed position; in which case, when folding portion 510 amoves to its folded position, security light 516 remains stationary withrespect to folding portion 510 a but moves with respect to the vehicle.In this embodiment, therefore, security light 516 is preferably orientedsuch that it projects light to provide a security zone when foldingportion 510 a is in its folded position, and preferably one that washesthe side of the vehicle and that provides adequate ground illumination(an average of at least one lux ground illumination intensity desired,at least five lux preferred) at the front and rear entrances/exits ofthe vehicle where occupants may enter/exit the cabin. Typically, when adriver of a vehicle with a powerfold exterior mirror approaches thevehicle, the powerfold exterior mirror assembly is in its foldedposition and does not move to its extended position until the driver isalready in the car with the ignition on. However, where the driver ofthe vehicle uses a remote control for actuating the powerfold exteriormirror assembly as the driver approaches the vehicle, the firstembodiment of the powerfold exterior mirror assembly may be preferred sothat if the folding portion of the mirror assembly is in its extendedbefore the driver enters the vehicle, then the security light willprovide a lighted security zone adjacent the vehicle which washes theside of vehicle and provides ground illumination at the cabin entrancesregardless of the position of the folded portion of the mirror assembly.

[0137] Optionally, the exterior rearview mirror assembly may include aproximity sensor 540 mounted on casing 512 which is electrically coupledto the powerfold control system (not shown). Proximity sensor 540actuates the powerfold function upon detection of an object, such asanother vehicle or wall, or the like. Furthermore, proximity detector540 may be coupled with the light module control circuitry (not shown)so that when the powerfold function is actuated by the detection of anobject, security light 516 will be similarly actuated to rotate withrespect to casing 512 to maintain light pattern 517 for the securityzone in substantially the same orientation.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 37, a fifth embodiment 610 of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly is illustrated. Exterior rearview mirrorassembly 610 is of similar construction to exterior rearview mirrorassembly 510 and also comprises a powerfold mirror assembly. Assembly610 includes a folding portion 610 a, which houses a reflective element614, and non-folding portion 610 b, which is adapted to fixedly mount tothe vehicle body. Powerfold mirror assembly 610 is typically operatedand actuatable/deactuatable from within the vehicle cabin either by auser operator switch or by a speed sensor as described in reference tothe previous embodiment. In preferred form, upon activation by thedriver (or by the speed sensor), folding portion 610 a pivots or foldsabout a fold-away axis 611 on non-folding portion 610 b from its normalextended, viewing position to a folded position wherein the rearwardlyfacing side of exterior mirror assembly 610 is disposed generallyparallel to the side of the vehicle.

[0139] In this embodiment, a security light 616 is mounted innon-folding portion 610 b of assembly 610. Security light 616 is ofsimilar construction to security light 516 and, therefore, reference ismade to the previous embodiment for further details thereof. In thismanner, when folding portion 610 a is moved between its extendedposition and its folded position, security light 616 will provide alighted security zone adjacent the vehicle which washes the side ofvehicle and provides ground illumination at the cabin entrancesregardless of the position of the folded portion of the mirror assembly.Therefore, pattern of light 617 projected by light module 616 remainsgenerally stationary with respect to the vehicle and is unaffected bythe repositioning of folding portion 610 a of assembly 610.

[0140] Furthermore, as described in reference to the previousembodiments, reflective element 614 may comprise an adjustablereflective element; for example, assembly 610 may include a manualactuator or an electrical actuator or the like, as should be understoodby those skilled in the art. Moreover, movement of reflective element614 is independent of the security light 616 as security light 616 ismounted or supported independently of reflective element 614 to assembly610.

[0141] As best seen in FIG. 38, security light 616 is preferablysubstantially incorporated at non-folding portion 610 b andaerodynamically located into fixed portion 610 b. Preferably, securitylight 616 is incorporated into exterior mirror assembly 610 with minimumprotrusion into the slipstream of the mirror assembly. In this manner,security light 616 does not significantly impact and, preferably, doesnot add to the aerodynamic drag of exterior mirror assembly 610. Mostpreferably, security light 616 is located into fixed portion 610 b withits security light lens 624 substantially flush with the outer surface620 of folding portion 610 b. Furthermore, in preferred form at leastsecurity light 616, or its light source 620, is serviceable.

[0142] With regard to embodiments of this present invention that utilizea security light module incorporated in a powerfold exterior mirrorassembly where the security light is located in the folding portion ofthe powerfold assembly, the optical design of the light module can besuch that a pattern of ground illumination is provided, such as isillustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, and where the side of the vehicle andthe entrances/exits of the cabin are well illuminated, when the foldingportion of the powerfold assembly is retracted and folded to the side ofthe vehicle body. Alternately, the preferred patterns of FIGS. 11 and 12can be realized when the folding portion is extended to its outward,non-retracted position. In this regard, it is optionally desirable thatthe folding portion, if retracted and folded to the vehicle body whenthe driver approaches the vehicle from a distance, can be remotelyunfolded such as by providing a button on a hand held transmitter (suchas a keyfob, commonly provided to vehicle owners today for remotelock/unlock of vehicle doors) which, when actuated, transmits a signal,preferably a radio frequency (RF) signal or an infrared (IR) signal, toa receiver in the vehicle of which, upon receipt of the remote command,causes the powerfold assembly to unfold and move its folding portion tothe fully extended, normal driving, unfolded position. Simultaneously,the security light can be activated so that when the powerfold unitunfolds, the signal light therein illuminates, and with both featuresbeing actuated by remote actuation from a distance. Such feature orfeatures can be locked out, as described previously, to avoidinadvertent operation when the vehicle is in motion.

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 39-41B a sixth embodiment of an exteriorrearview mirror assembly 710 is illustrated. Exterior rearview mirrorassembly 710 is a foldable exterior rearview mirror assembly andincludes a base or sail 712, for mounting to a vehicle, and a housing714 which is pivotally mounted to the base 712 in a conventional mannerand preferably with a break-away mounting. Optionally, exterior rearviewmirror assembly 710 may include a powerfold mechanism 715 (FIG. 39). Inthis manner, housing 714 moves from a normal use position to a foldedposition towards the vehicle, for example when housing 714 is impactedby a force sufficient to actuate the break-away mounting or when thepowerfold mechanism is actuated. It should be understood, that the termfolded position encompasses any position in which housing 14 is foldedfrom its normal use position towards the vehicle, including a foldedposition in which housing 714 is folded against the vehicle shown inFIG. 40. Exterior rearview mirror assembly 710 also includes areflective element 716 which is supported in housing 714. Reference ismade to the previous embodiments for examples of reflective element 716,break-away mountings, or powerfold mechanisms, and for examples ofpreferred materials for housing 714.

[0144] As best seen in FIGS. 41A and 41B, exterior rearview mirrorassembly 710 includes a ground illuminating light assembly 718, which isincorporated into housing 714, as will be more fully described below.Light assembly 718 directs light downwardly and rearwardly of thevehicle to provide a security light in a light pattern 719 shown in FIG.39. Light pattern 719 is defined between leading edges 720 and 722, withleading edge 720 extending rearwardly and generally parallel to the sideof the vehicle and leading edge 722 angled away from the vehicle andoptionally substantially orthogonal to the side of the vehicle such thatthe area of ground that is illuminated by light assembly 718 is adjacentboth the driver and passenger doors of the vehicle. Thus, light pattern719 is projecting generally rearwardly and generally parallel to thevehicle centerline or longitudinal axis 719 a (FIG. 39). In theillustrated embodiment, both passenger and driver side exterior rearviewmirror assemblies 710 and 710′ incorporate light assembly 718, withdriver side assembly 710′ providing a mirror image light pattern 719′ tolight pattern 719. However, it should be understood that light assembly718 may be incorporated into one or both of the driver and passengerside exterior rearview mirror assemblies.

[0145] As best seen in FIG. 40, when exterior rearview mirror assembly710 is moved from its normal operating position (shown in FIGS. 39 and41A) toward the vehicle to a folded position (shown in FIGS. 40 and41B), light assembly 718 directs light in a light pattern 723 downwardlyand rearwardly of the vehicle as defined between leading edges 724 and726, with leading edge 724 being angled toward the vehicle side andleading edge 726 being angled away from the vehicle. While light pattern723 produced by light assembly 718 in the folded position is illustratedas a reduced lighted security zone, as compared to the light patternwhen the exterior mirror assembly is in its normal use position, itshould be understood that the security zone of illumination may beincreased or decreased as desired by adjusting the optics of the lightassembly 718, as will be appreciated from the description which follows.

[0146] Referring again to FIGS. 41A and 41B, light assembly 718preferably includes two light sources 728 and 730 and at least oneoptical element 732. Alternately, a single light source with bifurcatedand/or compound emitting directions can be used and/or an opticalelement such as a lens with bifurcated and/or compound facets can beused. Optical element 732 includes a first illuminator portion 734 whichextends along the lower wall 736 of housing 714 and which directs lightdownwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle when the housing 714 is in itsnormal operating position preferably while restricting light fromentering the vehicle so that the light is substantially unobservable bythe occupant of the vehicle. Optical element 732 includes a secondilluminator portion 740 which extends from first illuminator portion 734and wraps around the lower outboard corner of housing 714 and upwardlyalong end or outboard wall 742 of housing 714. Second illuminatorportion 740 of optical element 732 projects light downwardly andrearwardly off the vehicle when housing 714 is in a folded position, asshown in FIG. 40. Preferably, light source 728 is associated with andprojects light through first illuminator portion 734 of optical element732, while light source 730 is associated with and projects light thoughsecond illuminator portion 740 of optical element 732. In this manner,light sources 728 and 730 may be individually actuated when the mirrorassembly housing 714 is moved between the normal operating position andfolded positions. Light sources 728 and 730 preferably comprise lightemitting diodes (LED's) or mini or micro-incandescent lamps, for examplemicro bulbs such as Christmas light bulbs. For examples of other lightsources which may be incorporated into light assembly 718, reference ismade to the previous embodiments.

[0147] In preferred form, optical element 732 comprises a lightconduiting member, for example a light pipe of the type described in theprevious embodiments. In this manner, light sources 728 and 730 may bepositioned adjacent to or optically coupled to respective input ends 734a and 740 a of the first and second illuminator portions 734 and 740 oflight pipe 732. As described in reference to the previous embodiments,light pipe 732 preferably includes a plurality of internal lightreflecting surfaces, which direct light through light pipe 732 frominput ends 734 and 740 a and outwardly from light pipe 732 through lightemitting surfaces 734 b and 740 b.

[0148] In one form, optical element 732 may comprise two or more lightpipe portions, which are preferably aligned and arranged in an abuttingrelationship to form a substantially continuous illuminator forming twoor more discrete illuminator portions. Further, optical element 732preferably comprises an L-shaped light pipe or L-shaped composite lightpipe.

[0149] Optionally, light assembly 718 may be formed as part of a lightmodule 750, which module preferably defines a lower portion 714 a ofhousing 714 of exterior rearview mirror assembly 710. Similar to theprevious embodiment, module 750 preferably includes a housing which isadapted to releasably secure to housing 714 of mirror assembly 710. Inthis manner, module 750 may be quickly and easily removed for service orreplacement. Furthermore, the module may incorporate a plurality ofother devices in addition to light assembly 718, as will be describedmore fully below.

[0150] Optionally, a ground illuminating security light (or a signallight) can be incorporated into non-folding or the fixed portion ofexterior rearview mirror assembly 710. Thus, a security light or signallight can be incorporated at or into the neck 36 and fixed or stationarypanel or sail 38 of the exterior rearview mirror assembly of FIG. 1. Forexample, such as illustrated in FIGS. 42A and 42B, a security light suchas floodlight 751 can be included, preferably in lower portion of baseor sail 712. Preferably floodlight 751 is similar in construction tosecurity light 516 and 616 described previously. Floodlight 751preferably remains generally fixed with respect to the vehicle and isunaffected by the repositioning of the folding portion of assembly 710.Thus, when, for example, housing 714 is moved toward the side of thevehicle under a break-away motion or due to actuation of a powerfoldmechanism, the lighted security zone established by the light patternprojected from floodlight 751 remains substantially unchanged.Optionally, a security light can be incorporated into both, or only oneof, the folding portion and the non-folding portion (i.e. theirremovable portion and their stationary or fixed portion) of a break-awayor powerfold exterior mirror assembly.

[0151] Furthermore, floodlight 751 may be a serviceable, waterimpervious light module that is incorporated into an exterior rearviewassembly, such as into a bracket of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly, in a manner that sustains the aerodynamics and styling of theassembly.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 42B, an eighth embodiment of exterior rearviewmirror assembly 710″ is illustrated. Exterior rearview mirror assembly710″ includes a mounting portion 712″ and a housing 714″, which includesa reflective element 716″, similar to the previous embodiments. Housing714″ also includes a light assembly 718″ for illuminating the groundadjacent the vehicle. Light assembly 718″ includes a light source 730″and a light conduiting member 732″, for example a light pipe, which isadapted to direct light downwardly and laterally from the vehicle whenthe exterior rearview mirror assembly 710″ is in its normal useposition, as illustrated in FIG. 42D. Light assembly 718″ produces alight pattern 719″ which is defined between leading edges 720″ and 722″,which form a cone light pattern which is substantially orthogonal to thecenterline or longitudinal axis 719 a of the vehicle as shown in FIG.39. Alternately, individual light emitting sources such as lightemitting diodes or incandescent micro lamps can be located in theassembly such that some are projecting light substantially orthogonallyto the vehicle centerline 719 a whereas others are projecting lightsubstantially parallel to the vehicle centerline 719 a. For furtherdetails of the light source and light conduiting member, reference ismade to the previous embodiments.

[0153] Similar to the previous embodiment, light conduiting member 732″wraps around a lower outboard corner of housing 714″ from a lower wall736″ to an outboard wall 742″ of housing 714″. In this manner, when thefolding portion of exterior rearview mirror assembly 710″ is movedbetween its normal use position, as illustrated in FIG. 42D, to a foldedposition, due to a break-away force or actuation by a powerfoldmechanism, light pattern 719″ extends generally rearward and laterallyfrom the vehicle similar to light pattern 723 shown in FIG. 40. Itshould be understood, that the range of light pattern 719″ may beincreased or decreased by varying the optics of light conduiting member732″, as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0154] Furthermore, similar to the previous embodiment, light signal718″ may be incorporated into a housing 748″ to form a light module 750″similar to light module 750 described in reference to the previousembodiment. In this manner, signal light 718″ may be easily removed forreplacement or service. In addition, module 750″ may incorporate otherdevices, as will be more fully described below.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 43, a tenth embodiment of exterior rearviewmirror assembly 810 is shown. Exterior rearview mirror assembly 810includes a mounting portion or sail 812 and a mirror housing 814 whichis mounted to or formed with sail 812. As described in reference to theearlier embodiments, exterior rearview mirror assembly 810 may comprisea fixed mirror assembly, a break-away mirror assembly, or the like.Furthermore, exterior rearview mirror assembly 810 may optionallyinclude a powerfold mechanism 815 as noted in reference to the previousembodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 814 is mounted forpivotal movement about axis 814 a. Positioned in housing 814 is areflective element 816 and a signal light assembly 818, which directslight at least laterally and rearwardly of the vehicle and, further,away from the vehicle to restrict light from entering the vehicle sothat the light is substantially unobservable by the occupant of thevehicle.

[0156] Signal light assembly 818 is positioned behind reflective element816 and preferably positioned to minimize the interference with thetypical field of view of an exterior rearview mirror assembly 810designated by area 819 in FIG. 43. Preferably, signal light assembly 818is positioned at a top outboard location of reflective element 816.

[0157] Reflective element 816 comprises a substrate 820 (see FIG. 44),for example a glass substrate, which includes a mirror reflectivecoating 822 on its front surface 820 a (alternatively, mirror reflectivecoating 822 could be on the rear surface of 820). For example, areflective coating 822 may comprise a metal reflective coating, such assilver, aluminum, palladium, chromium, rhodium, rhodium/chromium, orbinary reflectors, or the like. For examples of other suitablereflective coatings, reference is made to the previous embodiment. Inorder to direct light through reflective element 816, a portion of thereflective coating, such as a chrome metal film, on glass substrate 820is at least partially locally removed, for example by etching or asmasked during deposition, to form a window 816 a. In this manner, window816 a transmits at least 60% of visible light emitted by the signallight element placed behind surface 820 a of substrate 820, morepreferably at least 70% of visible light, and most preferably at least80% of visible light. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion ofreflective element that is removed preferably forms a turn signalindicia, for example a triangular shape or an arrow shape; however, itcan be appreciated that other shapes of windows, including a pluralityof discrete windows, may be used. In this manner, signal light assembly818 directs light through the glass substrate. Preferably, window 816 acomprises a clear, highly transparent portion of reflective element 816,and most preferably reflective coating 822 is fully removed.Consequently, the signal light can be readily observed by an approachingdriver whether or not the signal light is actuated. Optionally, window816 a may include an electrochromic layer to vary the intensity of thelight from signal light 818. For examples of suitable electrochromiclayers, reference is made to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,729,379 and 5,780,160,disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

[0158] Mirror reflective element 816 is supported by a reflectiveelement support member 824, such as a backing plate, which is preferablymounted to a positioning device, for example an electrical actuator, amanual actuator, or the like, to permit repositioning of reflectiveelement 816 within housing 814. However, it should be understood, thatreflective element 816 may comprise a fixed reflective element. Alsosupported on backing plate 824 is signal light assembly 818.

[0159] As best seen in FIG. 44, signal light assembly 818 includes alight source 826 and light conduiting member 828, such as a light pipe.Light conduiting member 828 is of similar construction to lightconduiting members 230 and 250. As previously described in reference tolight pipes 230 and 250, light conduiting member 828 includes a lightinput surface 828 a, a plurality of internal reflective surfaces 828 b,and a light emitting surface 828 c. Internal reflective surfaces 828 bdirect light from light source 826 outwardly through light emittingsurface 828 c while directing light away from the operator of thevehicle such that the light is substantially unobserved by the driver.Again, for examples of light sources and further description of suitablehousing materials, and light conduiting members, reference is made tothe previous embodiments.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 45 and 46, an eleventh embodiment 910 of anexterior rearview mirror assembly is illustrated. Exterior rearviewmirror assembly 910 includes a mounting portion or sail 912 and ahousing 914 which is formed with or mounted to sail 912. Included inhousing 914, are a reflective element 916 and a signal light assembly918. Reflective element 916 comprises a conventional reflective element;therefore, reference is made to the previous embodiments for someexamples of suitable reflective elements. Reflective element 916 issupported in housing 914 by a mirror support or backing plate 924 and ispreferably mounted for pivotal movement by an actuator, for example anelectrical actuator, a manual actuator, or the like. Alternatively,mirror support 924 may be mounted to a fixed support arm within mirrorhousing 914.

[0161] Supported on mirror support 924 adjacent reflective element 916is signal light assembly 918. Signal light assembly 918 directs lightlaterally and rearwardly from the vehicle and, further, away from thevehicle so that the light is substantially unobservable to the occupantof the vehicle. As best seen in FIG. 46, signal light assembly 918includes at least one light source 926 and a light conduiting member 928similar to the previous embodiment. Also similar to the previousembodiment, signal light 918 is positioned preferably in an outboardposition to minimize the interference with the field of view of mirrorelement 916. Preferably, light conduiting member 928 and reflectiveelement 916 are substantially aligned in a common plane so that theouter surface of signal light assembly 918 is generally flush withreflective element 916 to form substantially contiguous surfaces.Reference is made to the previous embodiments for further details ofsuitable light sources and light conduiting members. Optionally, lightassembly 918 may include a cover (not shown) to seal light source.However, it should be understood that a sealant may be used in lieu of aseparate cover, such as an epoxy.

[0162] The concepts of this invention are applicable to a variety ofexterior vehicular mirror assembly constructions, including one-partdesigns, uni-body constructions, and their like, as known in theexterior mirror assembly art. The concepts of the invention are alsoapplicable to a variety of assemblies including assemblies that use abracket as a distinct internal structure and assemblies that do not usea bracket but rather are bracket-less assemblies where the housingitself serves as a structural element with means such as on the walls ofthe housing for securing an actuator and for receiving a light module.

[0163] Also, although desirably and preferably finding utility as asecurity light, the exterior mirror assembly security light modules ofthis invention are also useful for other purposes such as providing fora courtesy exterior light, a general ground illumination light when suchlighting may be desired such as when a door is opening, a key isinserted, or a keyboard entry is touched, or when approach of a personto a vehicle is detected such as by voice activation, proximitydetection and the like. Also, light modules using the principles andconcepts described herein could be provided for mounting on the vehicleother than within an exterior mirror assembly, such as under a doorwithin a door well or under a door body panel so as to provide groundillumination directly under a door whenever said door is opened.

[0164] In addition, the signal light modules of the present inventionmay incorporate a security light. For example, referring to FIG. 47, asignal light module 416′″, which is of similar construction to signallight module 416, incorporates a security light module 516′. Securitylight module 516′ is of similar construction to security light modules516 or 616. In the illustrated embodiment, security module 516′ ismounted to the lower wall of signal light module 416′″ and projects alight pattern 517′ similar to light pattern 517. It should be understoodthat the location of security light module 516′ within signal lightmodule 416′″ is just one exemplary illustration and that other locationswithin signal light module 416′″ are also contemplated. Furthermore, theoptics of security light module 516′ may be adjusted, as would beunderstood, to accommodate the numerous other desirable locations withinsignal light assembly 416′″ to provide similar light patterns asdescribed in further detail in reference to the previous embodiments.Likewise, the security light modules of the present invention mayincorporate a signal light. In preferred form, the signal light modules(or security light modules or combined security light/turn signal lightmodules) complete or form the lower portion of the exterior mirrorhousing. In this manner, the signal light modules may be easily removedfor replacement or service. Also, the signal light modules may alsoinclude other lighting features, such as ground illumination lightswhich are activated when the door is opened, such as when the key isinserted into the door lock or when remotely unlocked by an electronickey or by voice activation, or when the car is approached by a person asdetected, for example, by a proximity detector system. Other featureswhich may be incorporated or combined with the signal light modules andsecurity light modules include: blind spot detectors; sensors, forexample control sensors for control circuits including control circuitsfor electrochromic elements, temperature sensors for controls orindicators, heading sensors; intelligent highway control systems (IHCS);intrusion detectors; antennas, such as a GPS antenna, car phoneantennas, radio antenna, and the like; microphones; speakers; garagedoor opener transmitters and antennas; an automatic toll booth paymentsystem, such as a PASS™ system; transceivers; a node and/or controllerfor a vehicle multiplex and/or car area network; a remote transactionsystem; or telecommunication devices, such as ONSTAR™ found in GeneralMotor vehicles of Detroit, Mich., or RESCU™ available from Ford MotorCompany of Detroit, Mich. Such remote transaction systems may, forexample, include such remote transaction systems described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/057,428 filed Apr. 8, 1998, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,158,655, commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland,Mich., the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety byreference herein. Further features may include providing the exteriormirror systems with plug-in electrical connectors, which permit thesecurity light modules and signal light modules of the present inventionto be easily and quickly plugged in to the exterior mirror assemblywithout the need for extra wiring (such as wire harnesses, cables, andthe like). Examples of suitable plug-in electrical connectors are shownin U.S. application Ser. No. 08/978,593 entitled MODULAR EXTERIORREARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,222, which is commonlyassigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich., which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0165] In addition, the signal light modules of the present inventionmay include incorporated therein one or more cameras. These cameras maybe forward and/or rearward facing depending on the application. Forexample, cameras may be used as a part of a headlamp control system,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,094, a rearview vision systemfor vehicles, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,670,935 and in PCTPublication No. 96/38319, an image capture system, such as disclosed inpending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25,1998, all commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich.and incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. In addition,the cameras may be supplied with an electrochromic filter, such asdisclosed in pending provisional Pat. application Ser. No. 60/135,657filed May 24, 1999, which is also commonly assigned to DonnellyCorporation of Holland, Mich., the disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

[0166] In preferred form, both the signal light modules and securitylight modules are detachable so that they can either be replaced as awhole unit or serviced with individual components of the respectivemodules being detachable for repair or replacement. In someapplications, it may be more commercially attractive to make the wholemodule replaceable as a unit rather than the individual components. Inother instances, it may be more commercially attractive to make some orall the individual components replaceable or serviceable, for examplethe bulb or bulbs may be individually replaceable. In addition, both oreither the signal lights and security lights may be used as a marker orlocation indicator, such as a car find feature, with the lights beingactuated, for example, by a key fob, to flash for intervals, forexample, one second intervals, five second intervals, or 15 intervals,or the like. However, when the signal light or security light is usedfor this feature, it is preferred that this marker function is lockedout when the vehicle is operating, for example by using a lock-outcircuit as previously described.

[0167] In order to minimize exposure to moisture and other elements, thesignal light modules and security light modules of the present inventionmay be fabricated as water impervious modules. The modules may includeone or more moisture escape routes, for example ports with covers thatpermit egress of moisture from the module but restrict moisture ingress.One example of such a cover is a patch of a semi-permeable membrane,such as GORTEX™. Alternately, the modules may include a drain to permitmoisture to drain from the module.

[0168] While several forms of the invention have been shown anddescribed, other forms will now become apparent to those skilled in theart. For example, the signal light assembly (216, 316, 416, 818, or 918)may project a white light or other colored light including a red lightor a blue light (such as could be generated by a blue LED or bluephosphor). Likewise, the security light module (516, 616, or 718) mayproject a colored light, such as an amber light or a red light asdesired. Furthermore, as described in reference to the first embodiment,rearview mirror assemblies 310, 410, 510, 610, 810, or 910 may comprisefixed position mirror assemblies or break-away mirror assemblies.Changes and modification in the specifically described embodiments canbe carried out without departing from the principles of the invention,which is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appendedclaims, as interpreted according to the principles of patent lawincluding the doctrine of equivalents. Therefore, it will be understoodthat the embodiment shown in the drawings described above are merely forillustrated purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, which is defined by the claims that follow.

We claim:
 1. A lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle comprising:an exterior mirror assembly, said exterior mirror assembly comprising afirst portion adapted for mounting to a vehicle, a second portion, and areflective element; a reflective element support member supporting saidreflective element, said reflective element support member mounting toan actuator operable to adjust the rearward field of view of saidreflective element when said exterior mirror assembly is mounted to avehicle, said actuator disposed at said second portion; a turn signalindicator; said turn signal indicator disposed adjacent to and separatefrom said reflective element, said turn signal indicator emitting alight beam at least generally laterally and rearwardly of the vehiclewhen said exterior mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle and when saidturn signal indicator is actuated; said turn signal indicator adjustingin tandem with said reflective element upon adjustment of the rearwardfield of view of said reflective element; said light beam substantiallyunobservable by the driver of the vehicle; and wherein said light beamdoes not pass through said reflective element.
 2. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 1, wherein said turn signalindicator comprises a portion forming an apex.
 3. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 2, wherein said apex islocated at or near an outboard region of said second portion.
 4. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 2, whereinsaid turn signal indicator comprises a generally triangular shapedportion.
 5. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 1, wherein said turn signal indicator includes an outer surfacefacing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted toa vehicle, said reflective element having an outer surface facingrearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to avehicle, said outer surface of said turn signal indicator beinggenerally contiguous with said outer surface of said reflective element.6. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 1,wherein said turn signal indicator comprises a light conduiting member.7. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 6,wherein said turn signal indicator further comprising a light source,said light source directing light into said conduiting member.
 8. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 7, whereinsaid light conduiting member includes a light input portion and asurface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly ismounted to a vehicle, said light conduiting member being configured todirect light from said light input portion to and out from saidrearwardly facing surface.
 9. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 8, wherein said light conduiting memberincludes a plurality of internal reflective surfaces for directing lightfrom said light input portion to and out from said rearwardly facingsurface.
 10. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 9, wherein said light conduiting member includes a portion with astepped configuration to thereby form said internal reflective surfaces.11. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 8,wherein said rearwardly facing surface is generally planar.
 12. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 8, whereinsaid reflective element has an outer surface facing rearwardly of thevehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, saidrearwardly facing surface of said light conduiting member beinggenerally co-planar with said outer surface of said reflective element.13. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 12,wherein said rearwardly facing surface of said light conduiting memberforms a generally triangular shaped turn signal indicator.
 14. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 6, whereinsaid reflective element support supports said light conduiting member.15. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 14,wherein said reflective element support includes a member positionedbetween said light conduiting member and said reflective element. 16.The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 14,wherein said support member includes adjacent recesses, a first of saidrecesses having said reflective element positioned therein, and a secondof said recesses having said light conduiting member positioned therein.17. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 16,wherein said light conduiting member includes a light input portion anda rearwardly facing surface forming said turn signal indicator, saidlight conduiting member being configured to direct light from said lightinput portion to and out from said rearwardly facing surface.
 18. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 17, whereinsaid light conduiting member includes a plurality of internal reflectivesurfaces for directing light from said light input portion to and outfrom said rearwardly facing surface.
 19. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 18, wherein said rearwardly facingsurface forms a triangular-shaped turn signal indicator.
 20. The lightedexterior rearview mirror system according to claim 19, wherein saidrearwardly facing surface is a substantially continuous surface.
 21. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system of claim 1, wherein said turnsignal indicator includes a light source, said light source chosen froman incandescent source, a fluorescent source, and a light emittingdiode.
 22. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 1, wherein said second portion is movably connected to said firstportion.
 23. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 22, wherein said second portion is movably connected to said firstportion by a connection chosen from at least one of a break-awayconnection and a power-fold connection.
 24. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 1, wherein said reflectiveelement support member comprises a plastic backing plate.
 25. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 1, whereinsaid turn signal indicator is disposed in said second portion of saidexterior mirror assembly at a location generally laterally outboard ofan edge portion of said reflective element, said edge portion of saidreflective element being closer to the side of the vehicle to which saidexterior mirror assembly is mounted than said outboard location of saidturn signal indicator.
 26. A lighted exterior mirror system for avehicle comprising: an exterior mirror assembly, said exterior mirrorassembly comprising a first portion adapted for mounting to a vehicle, asecond portion, and a reflective element; a reflective element supportmember supporting said reflective element, said reflective elementsupport member mounting to an actuator operable to adjust the rearwardfield of view of said reflective element when said exterior mirrorassembly is mounted to a vehicle, said actuator disposed at said secondportion; a turn signal indicator; said turn signal indicator disposedadjacent to and separate from said reflective element, said turn signalindicator emitting a light beam at least generally laterally andrearwardly of the vehicle when said exterior mirror assembly is mountedto a vehicle and when said turn signal indicator is actuated; said turnsignal indicator adjusting in tandem with said reflective element uponadjustment of the rearward field of view of said reflective element;said light beam substantially unobservable by the driver of the vehicle;wherein said light beam does not pass through said reflective element;and wherein said turn signal indicator comprise a generally triangularshaped turn signal indicator.
 27. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 26, wherein said triangular-shaped turn signalindicator includes an apex, said apex being located at or near anoutboard region of said second portion.
 28. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 27, wherein said turn signalindicator is disposed in said second portion of said exterior mirrorassembly at a location generally laterally outboard of an edge portionof said reflective element, said edge portion of said reflective elementbeing closer to the side of the vehicle to which said exterior mirrorassembly is mounted than said outboard location of said turn signalindicator.
 29. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 26, wherein said turn signal indicator includes an outer surfacefacing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted toa vehicle, said reflective element having an outer surface facingrearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to avehicle, said outer surface of said turn signal indicator beinggenerally contiguous with said outer surface of said reflective element.30. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 26,wherein said turn signal indicator comprises a light conduiting member.31. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 30,wherein said turn signal indicator further comprises a light source,said light source directing light into said conduiting member.
 32. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 31, whereinsaid light conduiting member includes a light input portion and asurface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly ismounted to a vehicle, said light conduiting member being configured todirect light from said light input portion to and out from saidrearwardly facing surface.
 33. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 32, wherein said light conduiting memberincludes a plurality of internal reflective surfaces for directing lightfrom said light input portion to and out from said rearwardly facingsurface.
 34. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 33, wherein said light conduiting member includes a portion with astepped configuration to thereby form said internal reflective surfaces.35. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 32,wherein said rearwardly facing surface is generally planar.
 36. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 32, whereinsaid reflective element has an outer surface facing rearwardly of thevehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, saidrearwardly facing surface of said light conduiting member beinggenerally co-planar with said outer surface of said reflective element.37. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 36,wherein said rearwardly facing surface is generally planar.
 38. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 30, whereinsaid reflective element support supports said light conduiting member.39. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 38,wherein said reflective element support includes a member positionedbetween said light conduiting member and said reflective element. 40.The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 38,wherein said support member includes adjacent recesses, a first of saidrecesses having said reflective element positioned therein, and a secondof said recesses having said light conduiting member positioned therein.41. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 40,wherein said light conduiting member includes a light input portion anda rearwardly facing surface forming said turn signal indicator, saidlight conduiting member being configured to direct light from said lightinput portion to and out from said rearwardly facing surface.
 42. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 41, whereinsaid light conduiting member includes a plurality of internal reflectivesurfaces for directing light from said light input portion to and outfrom said rearwardly facing surface.
 43. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 42, wherein said rearwardly facingsurface forms said triangular-shaped turn signal indicator.
 44. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 43, whereinsaid rearwardly facing surface is a substantially continuous surface.45. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system of claim 26, whereinsaid turn signal indicator includes a light source, said light sourcechosen from an incandescent source, a fluorescent source, and a lightemitting diode.
 46. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 26, wherein said second portion is movably connectedto said first portion.
 47. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 46, wherein said second portion is movably connectedto said first portion by a connection chosen from at least one of abreak-away connection and a power-fold connection.
 48. The lightedexterior rearview mirror system according to claim 26, wherein saidreflective element support member comprises a plastic backing plate. 49.A lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle comprising: an exteriormirror assembly, said exterior mirror assembly comprising a firstportion adapted for mounting to a vehicle, a second portion, and areflective element; a reflective element support member supporting saidreflective element, said reflective element support member mounting toan actuator operable to adjust the rearward field of view of saidreflective element when said exterior mirror assembly is mounted to avehicle, said actuator disposed at said second portion; a turn signalindicator; said turn signal indicator disposed adjacent to and separatefrom said reflective element, said turn signal indicator emitting alight beam at least generally laterally and rearwardly of the vehiclewhen said exterior mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle and when saidturn signal indicator is actuated; said turn signal indicator adjustingin tandem with said reflective element upon adjustment of the rearwardfield of view of said reflective element; said light beam substantiallyunobservable by the driver of the vehicle; wherein said light beam doesnot pass through said reflective element; and wherein said secondportion is movably connected to said first portion by a connectionchosen from at least one of a break-away connection and a power-foldconnection.
 50. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 49, wherein said turn signal indicator comprises a portion formingan apex.
 51. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 50, wherein said apex is located at or near an outboard region ofsaid second portion.
 52. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 49, wherein said turn signal indicator comprises agenerally triangular shaped portion.
 53. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 49, wherein said turn signal indicatorincludes an outer surface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when saidmirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, said reflective element havingan outer surface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirrorassembly is mounted to a vehicle, said outer surface of said turn signalindicator being generally contiguous with said outer surface of saidreflective element.
 54. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 49, wherein said turn signal indicator comprises alight conduiting member.
 55. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 54, wherein said turn signal indicator furthercomprising a light source, said light source directing light into saidconduiting member.
 56. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 55, wherein said light conduiting member includes alight input portion and a surface facing rearwardly of the vehicle whensaid mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, said light conduitingmember being configured to direct light from said light input portion toand out from said rearwardly facing surface.
 57. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 56, wherein said lightconduiting member includes a plurality of internal reflective surfacesfor directing light from said light input portion to and out from saidrearwardly facing surface.
 58. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 57, wherein said light conduiting memberincludes a portion with a stepped configuration to thereby form saidinternal reflective surfaces.
 59. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 56, wherein said rearwardly facing surface isgenerally planar.
 60. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 56, wherein said reflective element has an outersurface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assembly ismounted to a vehicle, said rearwardly facing surface of said lightconduiting member being generally co-planar with said outer surface ofsaid reflective element.
 61. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 60, wherein said rearwardly facing surface of saidlight conduiting member forms a generally triangular shaped turn signalindicator.
 62. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 54, wherein said reflective element support supports said lightconduiting member.
 63. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 62, wherein said reflective element support includesa member positioned between said light conduiting member and saidreflective element.
 64. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 63, wherein said support member includes adjacentrecesses, a first of said recesses having said reflective elementpositioned therein, and a second of said recesses having said lightconduiting member positioned therein.
 65. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 64, wherein said light conduitingmember includes a light input portion and a rearwardly facing surfaceforming said turn signal indicator, said light conduiting member beingconfigured to direct light from said light input portion to and out fromsaid rearwardly facing surface.
 66. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 65, wherein said light conduiting memberincludes a plurality of internal reflective surfaces for directing lightfrom said light input portion to and out from said rearwardly facingsurface.
 67. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 66, wherein said rearwardly facing surface forms atriangular-shaped turn signal indicator.
 68. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 67, wherein said rearwardlyfacing surface is a substantially continuous surface.
 69. The lightedexterior rearview mirror system of claim 49, wherein said turn signalindicator includes a light source, said light source chosen from anincandescent source, a fluorescent source, and a light emitting diode.70. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 49,wherein said reflective element support member comprises a plasticbacking plate.
 71. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system accordingto claim 49, wherein said turn signal indicator is disposed in saidsecond portion of said exterior mirror assembly at a location generallylaterally outboard of an edge portion of said reflective element, saidedge portion of said reflective element being closer to the side of thevehicle to which said exterior mirror assembly is mounted than saidoutboard location of said turn signal indicator.
 72. A lighted exteriormirror system for a vehicle comprising: an exterior mirror assembly,said exterior mirror assembly comprising a first portion adapted formounting to a vehicle, a second portion, and a reflective element; areflective element support member supporting said reflective element,said reflective element support member mounting to an actuator operableto adjust the rearward field of view of said reflective element whensaid exterior mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, said actuatordisposed at said second portion; a turn signal indicator; said turnsignal indicator disposed adjacent to and separate from said reflectiveelement, said turn signal indicator emitting a light beam at leastgenerally laterally and rearwardly of the vehicle when said exteriormirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle and when said turn signalindicator is actuated; said turn signal indicator adjusting in tandemwith said reflective element upon adjustment of the rearward field ofview of said reflective element; said light beam substantiallyunobservable by the driver of the vehicle; wherein said light beam doesnot pass through said reflective element; wherein said second portion ismovably connected to said first portion by a connection chosen from atleast one of a break-away connection and a power-fold connection; andwherein said turn signal indicator is disposed in said second portion ofsaid exterior mirror assembly at a location generally laterally outboardof an edge portion of said reflective element, said edge portion of saidreflective element being closer to the side of the vehicle to which saidexterior mirror assembly is mounted than said outboard location of saidturn signal indicator.
 73. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 72, wherein said turn signal indicator comprises aportion forming an apex.
 74. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 73, wherein said apex is located at or near anoutboard region of said second portion.
 75. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 73, wherein said turn signalindicator comprises a generally triangular shaped portion.
 76. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 72, whereinsaid turn signal indicator includes an outer surface facing rearwardlyof the vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, saidreflective element having an outer surface facing rearwardly of thevehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, said outersurface of said turn signal indicator being generally contiguous withsaid outer surface of said reflective element.
 77. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 72, wherein said turn signalindicator comprises a light conduiting member.
 78. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 77, wherein said turn signalindicator further comprises a light source, said light source directinglight into said conduiting member.
 79. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 78, wherein said light conduitingmember includes a light input portion and a surface facing rearwardly ofthe vehicle when said mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle, saidlight conduiting member being configured to direct light from said lightinput portion to and out from said rearwardly facing surface.
 80. Thelighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 79, whereinsaid light conduiting member includes a plurality of internal reflectivesurfaces for directing light from said light input portion to and outfrom said rearwardly facing surface.
 81. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 80, wherein said light conduitingmember includes a portion with a stepped configuration to thereby formsaid internal reflective surfaces.
 82. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 81, wherein said rearwardly facingsurface is generally planar.
 83. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 79, wherein said reflective element has anouter surface facing rearwardly of the vehicle when said mirror assemblyis mounted to a vehicle, said rearwardly facing surface of said lightconduiting member being generally co-planar with said outer surface ofsaid reflective element.
 84. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 79, wherein said rearwardly facing surface of saidlight conduiting member forms a generally triangular shaped turn signalindicator.
 85. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 77, wherein said reflective element support supports said lightconduiting member.
 86. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 85, wherein said reflective element support includesa member positioned between said light conduiting member and saidreflective element.
 87. The lighted exterior rearview mirror systemaccording to claim 72, wherein said support member includes adjacentrecesses, a first of said recesses having said reflective elementpositioned therein, and a second of said recesses having said turnsignal indicator positioned therein.
 88. The lighted exterior rearviewmirror system according to claim 87, wherein said turn signal indicatorcomprises a light conduiting member, said light conduiting memberincluding a light input portion and a rearwardly facing surface formingsaid turn signal indicator, said light conduiting member beingconfigured to direct light from said light input portion to and out fromsaid rearwardly facing surface.
 89. The lighted exterior rearview mirrorsystem according to claim 88, wherein said light conduiting memberincludes a plurality of internal reflective surfaces for directing lightfrom said light input portion to and out from said rearwardly facingsurface.
 90. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according toclaim 89, wherein said rearwardly facing surface forms atriangular-shaped turn signal indicator.
 91. The lighted exteriorrearview mirror system according to claim 90, wherein said rearwardlyfacing surface is a substantially continuous surface.
 92. The lightedexterior rearview mirror system of claim 72, wherein said turn signalindicator includes a light source, said light source chosen from anincandescent source, a fluorescent source, and a light emitting diode.93. The lighted exterior rearview mirror system according to claim 72,wherein said reflective element support member comprises a plasticbacking plate.